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EMBRACING 

DESPERATE ENCOUNTERS WITH INDIANS, TORIES, AND REFUGEES ; 
DARING EXPLOITS OF TEXAN RANGERS AND OTHERS, AND IN- 
CIDENTS OF GUERILLA WARFARE ; FEARFUL DEEDS OF THE 
GAMBLERS AND DESPERADOES, RANGERS AND REGU- 
LATORS OF THE WEST AND SOUTHWEST ; HUNT- * 
TNG STORIES, TRAPPING ADVENTURES, 
ETC., ETC., ETC. 




>^ 



BY WARREN WTLDWOOD, ESQ, 



PHILADELPHIA: 
PUBLISHED BY J. EDWIN POTTER, 

NO. 617 SANSOM STREET. 

1862. 



j/^ 









A^ 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1S61, by 

J. EDWIN POTTER, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States in and for the Eastern 
District of Pennsylvania. 



ELECTROTTPED BY S. A. GEOR( 
607 SANSOM STREET, PHILADELPHIA. 



r/ ^ 




|tt»li¥E||| 






PREFACE 



But a brief period has elapsed since this continent was peopled by 
a new and daring race ; a race who sought a refuge from tyranny 
and oppression, among these American wilds ; for civil and religious 
liberty ; for liberty of conscience to worship their Creator according 
to their own conceptions of heaven's revealed will. Among savage 
beasts and more savage men, liable at any moment to meet death in 
its most appalling forms, they yet shrunk not from the burdens they 
had assumed, until their efforts were crowned by a glorious and 
final triumph. 

And now, from the old world and the new, a vast tide of emigra- 
tion swept in upon the immense prairies of the west, and the fertile 
fields of the south ; a heterogeneous mass of elements ; the enterpris- 
ing and virtuous seeking to improve their condition ; the vicious of 
all grades desiring to escape from the terrors and trammels of the 
law. Between such opposing interests and passions, collisions 
were inevitable, and fearful have been some of the deeds that stain 
the history of these localities. 

In every new country, there is an era of strife, turbulence, and 
general combat ! a state of nature which is always a state of war, 
when sanguinary crimes provoke still more sanguinary punishments, 
and savage fury, and brutal force inaugurate a reign of universal 
terror. It is peculiar to no geographical section, but applies with 
more force to the west and southwest than elsewhere. Petty vil- 
lains and noted criminals — gamblers, counterfeiters, murderers and 
others, who have outraged the laws of older localities, have here 
sought a comparatively secure retreat, and inviting fields in which 
to continue the perpetration of their crimes. But happily in all 
instances, the phenomenon is of brief duration ; the evil soon runs its 
course. In the absence of legitimate authority and regular organi- 

(5) 



6 PREFACE. 

zations, lynch law usurps its place, uud oi'ttiines visits a swift and 
terrible retribution upon the offenders. Anarchists and desperadoes 
are either exterminated or driven farther west, and the beautiful 
spirit of order and progress emerges from the chaos of confusion and 
blood. 

While therefore we can never sufficiently admire those noble 
founders of the republic, who were ready and willing to sacrifice 
their all for their country's good, we yet dwell with an intense 
and living interest upon the bold and daring, though sometimes 
unscrupulous deeds of the men of a later day, who have made 
"the wilderness to blossom as the rose." For no more in the petty 
contests of life on the frontier, than in the mightiest shock of ad- 
verse nations and races, will humanity or civilization ever suffer a 
permanent check, or lose a single important battle. 

No efforts of the imagination can equal these startling reali- 
ties—these lights and shadows of life among the early settlers, some 
of which the editor has presented in the following pages. He claims 
no originality in the work, having gleaned his subjects from a 
variety of sources, and simply seeking to admit none but those he 
believed rehable and truthful. The facts of each are common pro- 
perty, some of which have been given by a variety of parties, but in 
all cases where there was a choice, he has adopted the one which 
seemed to him best and most truthfully told, without regard to 
whom should be the narrator. To many of our readers, therefore, 
some of the tales may not be new, but he believes all are worthy of 
preservation. The aid of the artist has been invoked, who has 
added largely to the force and beauty of the text, by many graphic 
delmeations of the more important points inr the various stories. 

With the hope that the public generally may be as deeply inter- 
ested in its perusal as has been the author in its preparation, the 
volume is left in their hands to be dealt with as to them shall be 
deemed meet and proper. 

W. W. 

Philadelphia, Nov., 1861. 



CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



PAGE 

MCCULLOCH'S FEARFUL LEAP, 15 

The fearfulleap, 15 

The flight 17 

The pursuit 18 

THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE, 20 

The block-house, 20 

"They're coming" cried he, "a hundred of them at least," 21 

" God be good to us," said Rachel, " they are burning our houses," 22 

The captain stuck a dirty pocket handkerchief upon the point of his sword, 24 

Two of them fell and rolled from behind the trees, 25 

Meantime the vultures and turkey-buzzards had already begun to assemble, 26 

"Asa ! my beloved Asa !" shrieked Rachel, "if you die I shall die too,"... 29 

Righteous shot down one of the Spaniards, 30 

Loading the rifles, 32 

POE'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER WITH BIG FOOT 33 

The brothers, 34 

The discovery, 35 

Big Foot 36 

The struggle, 38 

ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE, , 40 

Daniel Boone, , 40 

Escape of Boone and Stuart, 42 

Boone fighting over'the dead body of his son, 45 

The fort at Boonesborough, 46 

Capture of Boone's daughter, 47 

Kenton saving the life of Boone, 49 

Boone taken to Detroit, 50 

Indian encampment, 62 

The fight at the salt works, 56 



A PERILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE, 57 

After the deer, 58 

(7) 



8 CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 

A PEKILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE— Continued. page 
On the Canada shore, 60 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER, 62 

The military barracks at Lancaster, 62 

The old fruit woman, 64 

The old woman in a new character, 65 

The old stone barn, 68 

The conductor's threat, 71 

The bloody struggle, 7a 

DAVID CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A BEAR— AS RELATED BY HIMSELF,.... 75 

Crockett and the bear, 75 



THE ROMANCE OF WAR— SERGEANT JASPER AND SALLY ST. CLAIR, 78 

In the midst of the battle, with her lover by her side, the heroic maiden dies, 78 

THE DESPERADOES' MISTAKE, 81 

A rendezvous of the Murrel gang, 82 

The prudent warning of Uncle Ben, 84 

At the mercy of the desperadoes, „ 89 

John A. Murrel in the prison smithy at Nashville, 91 

AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE, 92 

"And now," continued the old trapper, as he lit his stone pipe, "as I'm 

in the hnmor on't, I'll tell yer ahout a fight" etc 33 

"I had to drop the keg before a drop of the blessed stufiF had wet my 

thirsty lips," 96 

" I could see the cowardly wolves gathering armsful of dry sticks and 

grass to smoke me out," 98 

"Arter a while when I thought the coast was clear of the red fools, I 

ventured to the open air," .y, 100 

THE WONDERFUL ESCAPE 102 

Benham was shot through hoth legs. The man who now appeared had 

escaped from the same battle with both arms broken,.., 102 

The man who could walk was thus enabled to bring water by means of 

his teeth, 104 

The crew paid no attention to their signals of distress, but instantly put 

over to the opposite side of the river, 106 



THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS, 107 

Old Yokum's house of entertainment at Pine Island prairie, 107 

Brition fell dead instantly without word or groan, 110 

Doom of the desperado, 112 

Doom of the desperado's son, 113 



CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 9 

PAGE 

THE EANGER'S THRILLING INDIAN ADVENTURE, 114 

The Abenaki pitched forward to the ground, and his shaven head ploughed 

up the snow for yards, 114 

He heard a wild and horrid cry, and turning saw a sight that has mur- 
dered his sleep for many a night since, 116 



THE FIGHTING PARSON, 118 

The parson sinks exhausted and bleeding on the ground, 118 

The parson in for the fight, 120 

Exercising the rights of war, 122 

THE SEBIINOLE CHIEFTAIN'S TOUCHING APPEAL, 124 

" Say to my band that my feet are chained," 124 

Camp fires of the Seminole, 127 

THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT— NORFOLK IN 1776, 129 

The first gun of the fleet breaks the horrible suspense, 129 

A ball crashed through the building carrying her head with it, 132 

There was a loud explosion near, followed by a wild cry, 134 

A TEXAN RANGER'S FEARFUL ADVENTURE AMONG THE GUERILLAS, 136 

The Guerillas' rancho, 136 

The Ranger and his guide after the Ohio men, 138 

"For the love of God, Senor, fly from this place," 141 

The two Ohio men had been stabbed to the heart, 144 

The fearless Ranger cuts his way through the Guerillas, 146 

THE GAMBLERS' DEN AT NATCHEZ, 147 

The rope began to tighten and the house to creak, 147 



PERILOUS ADVENTURE OF CAPTAIN BRADY, 149 

" Blady make good jump! Blady make very good jump," 149 

DARING EXPLOITS OF GENERAL PUTNAM, 152 

General Putnam in disguise at Horse-Neck, 152 

JOHN MINTER'S FEARFUL ENCOUNTER WITH A BEAR, 154 

Minter drew his long keen huntiug-knife and prepared for the. fatal en- 
counter which he knew must ensue, 155 

Minter's appearance after the fearful encounter, 157 

THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS— AN INCIDENT OF THE CREEK WAR 158 

Fort Mimms, 159 

On the watch 160 

"To arms! to arms ! the Indians are upon us !" 162 



10 CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 

MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS— Continued. page 
e now indeed felt that our doom was sealed, 165 

MOODY, THE JERSEY REFUGEE, 166 

The Jersey refugee, 167 

Doom of the refugee, 170 

THE WHITE HORSEMAN, 171 

Death ou the pale horse, 172 

The old man's return from his cherry picking trip, 175 

BLACK DICK AND THE LYNCHERS— A FEARFUL MISSISSIPPI TRAGEDY,.. 176 

Black Dick assaulting Greene, his master, 176 

The negro cuts his wife through and through, 179 

Revenge of the lynching party, ISO 

BIG JOE LOGSTON'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER WITH TWO INDIANS, 181 

An old Kentucky fist fight between Joe and the Indian, 181 

The Indian throws his tomahawk at Joe, 183 

Joe finishes oue of the Indians, 184 

The end of poor Joe, 186 

THE PATRIOTIC QUAKERESS, 186 

Residence of the Quakeress in Second street below Spruce, Philadelphia,... 187 
The Quakeress hastening to the American lines, 188 

CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A COUGAR— AS RELATED BY HIMSELF, 189 

He was down upon me like a night-hawk upoa a June bug, 190 



ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON, 192 

Kenton and Montgomery running off the Indian horses, 193 

Holding a council, 195 

The face of Montgomery, 198 

Kenton bound to a wild young horse, 200 

Running the gauntlet, 201 

Incident at the battle of Boonesborough, 202 



A SHE-DEVIL AMONG THE TORIES, 203 

"I never feed king's men," said Nancy, "if I can help it," 203 

Sukey blows the conch-shell, 206 

Nancy shoots one and demands the surrender of the others, 207 

The she-devil's favorite tree, 208 

THE ROSE OF GUADALOUPE— A TEXAN RANGER'S STORY, 208 

Old Andrew's daughter carried ofi' by the Comanche chief, 209 

Return of the heartbroken daughter, 211 



CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. ll 

PAGE 

THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA, 211 

Murder and robbery among the planters, 212 

The robbers' retreat, 214 

Parson Redfield's proposition 216 

Peculiar footpi-ints of the gambler's horse, 218 

Delaware Dave on track of the robbers, 221 

Summary work of Judge Lynch, 223 

LEWIS AND THE RATTLESNAKE, 223 

Appalling situation of Lewis, 224 

The weary homeward march, 227 

DARING EXPLOITS OF COLONEL JACK HAYS, THE TEXAN RANGER 228 

The Rangers charging on the Comanches, 229 

Making sure work of the Chief, 231 

The tightest place that ever Jack was in, 233 

THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON SHIP, 233 

Sickening scenes among the prisoners, 234 

Wheeler determined to escape, 236 

Wheeler and his pursuers, 238 

The fugitive escapes in female disguise 241 

THE RIFLEMAN OF CHIPPEWA, 242 

The Rifleman solving the mystery 243 

The disguised Indian and the sham sentinel, 246 

The sentinels revenged,., 247 

THE HORSE STEALERS OF ILLINOIS— A LAWYER'S STORY, 247 

The lawyer and the criminal's wife 248 

Running oflFa stolen horse, 250 

SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS— AN INCIDENT OF THE MEXICAN WAR, 253 

The request of my friend and guide, 254 

Prescribing for the invalid father, 256 

Driving back the cowardly rabble, 258 

My disguise as a Mexican Senorita, 261 

My adieu to the brave Carlotta, 263 

WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS, 263 

Burgess begging Tom not to leave him, 264 

Tom fell, but instantly rose again and ran, 266 

Tom draws his hunting knife 269 

Mrs. Pursley rushes to the rescue of Tom, 270 

Tom becomes his own surgeon, 271 



12 CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 

PAGE 
ADVENTUEES OF A NAVY OFFICER IN THE CANADIAN REBELLION- 
HOW HE OUTWITTED GENERAL SCOTT, 272 

My interview with the general, 272 

My supper with the general, 276 

A DESPERADO'S THRILLING ADVENTURE, 278 

The desperado and the British sentinel, 2^9 

The desperado's flight, 282 

The desperado's narrow escape, 283 



THE GAMBLERS OF THE SOUTH AND WEST, 283 

Fearful result of gambling on a Mississippi boat, 284 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHWEST— HOW A BRAVE MAN 

SAVED DETROIT, 285 

The Indians swarming the streets of Detroit, 286 

The Frenchman's appeal to the officer, 288 

The brave colonel's electric address, 290 

JACOB WETZEL AND HIS FAITHFUL DOG— A LEGEND OF CINCINNATI,... 291 

The hunter's critical situation, 292 

The hunter escapes, 294 

A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS— THE STAGE DRIVER'S STORY,... 295 
"Pete" said the postmaster, "there's some heavy money packages in that 

bag," 296 

My suspicious passenger, 299 

The desperado caught, 301 

BRADY AND THE DUTCHMAN, 302 

Captain Brady and the honest Dutchman, 302 

The old Indian at the camp fire, 305 

Phouts and the hole in his belt, 307 



MAJOR STOUT THE REGULATOR, 308 

The regulator and the moneylender, 309 

The humbled usurer, 312 



DESPERATE ADVENTURE OF COLONEL McLANE, 313 

The shot and the flight, 314 



THE BACKWOODSMAN AND THE TURKEY, 316 

The hunter and the Indian, 317 

The Indian's last gobble, 319 

' The hunter's return, 321 



CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 13 

PAOE 

THE INDIANS AND THE HOLLOW LOG 322 

The tenant of the hollow log, 322 

Drawing a bee line for Fort Plain, 325 

THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY, 325 

"Every body round here," said the bully, "must drink or fight," 326 

" Do you intend to murder me," inquired the stranger, 329 

The stranger neither blanched nor changed expression, 333 

The bully fell heavily forward, shot through the brain, 334 

A RACE FOR LIFE, 335 

Elerson's great twenty-five mile race, 335 

The last shot, 338 

DESPERATE FIGHT WITH A PANTHER— A KENTUCKIAN'S STORY, 340 

Death of poor Sport, 340 

LAFAYETTE AND THE JERSEYMAN, 341 

The Jerseyman and the deserters, 342 

THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS, 344 

Watching the enemy, 344 

The scout and the squaws, 347 

The mysterious shot, 349 

The mystery explained, and the girl's revenge, 351 

THE BRAVO OF TEXAS, 353 

The bravo's adventure in a Houston bar-room, 353 

Doom of the bravo, 356 

JOHN DEAN AND THE INDIANS ...-. 357 

The squaws in council, 358 

THE MURDERER'S ORDEAL— A CALIFORNIAN'S STORY, 360 

I was startled from sleep by cries of "Murder! murder! help! help!" 360 

"This simple egg," said I, "so fair to view, contains the murderer's 

secret," 362 

A despairing shriek came from the lips of the guilty wretch, 365 

There was a howl of fury, and a rush like wolves upon their prey, 366 

In less than ten minutes he was dangling from a neighboring tree, 368 

THRILLING CONTEST WITH A STAG— A KENTUCKY SPORTSMAN'S STORY, 369 
With one bound he was upon me, wounding and almost disabling me with 
his sharp horns and feet, 370 



14 CONTENTS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 

PAGE 

THE WOLVES AND THL DAEKEY FIDDLER, 372 

The old darkey in a tight place, 373 

Plantation scene, 375 

Little darkeys on a race, 377 

THE MURDERER'S CREEK, 379 

Bound to the stake— an incident of savage warfare, 379 

The flight and the pursuit, 382 




General Putnam's bold 
plunge on horseback down the 
steep declivity at Horseneck, 
in his escape from the British 
troops, has passed into general 
history, and there are but few who are ignorant of its details. 
This exploit, however, is by no means a solitary example of des- 
perate daring, as the narrative which we subjoin will abundantly 
attest. 

Fort Henry was situated about a quarter of a mile above Wheel- 
ing creek, on the left bank of the Ohio river, and was erected to 
protect the settlers of the little village of Wheeling, which, at the 

(15) . 



f 



IQ m'culloch's fearful leap. 

time of its investment, consisted of about twenty-five cabins. In 
the month of September, 1775, it was invested by about four hun- 
dred warriors, on the approach of whom the settlers had fled into it, 
leaving their cabins and their contents to the torch of the savages. 
The whole force comprising the garrison consisted of forty-two fight- 
ing men all told ; but there were among them men who knew the use 
of the rifle, and who were celebrated throughout the borders as 
the implacable enemies of the red man, and as the best marksmen 
in the world. Of these, however, more than one-half perished in 
an ill-advised sortie before the siege commenced, and when the 
fort was surrounded by the foe, but sixteen men remained to de- 
fend it against their overwhelming numbers. But their mothers, 
wives, and daughters were there, and nerved the little band to 
deeds of heroism to which the records of the ware of ancient and 
^liimern history present no parallel. Here it was that Elizabeth 
Zane passed through the fire of the whole body of redskins in 
the eS'ort to bring into the fort the ammunition so necessary to 
its defence ;— here it was, also, that the wives and daughters of 
its noble defenders marched to a spring in point-blank range of 
the ambuscaded Indians, in going to and fro, for the purpose of 
bringing water for the garrison. 

Messengers had been dispatched at the earliest alarm to the 
neighboring settlements for succor, and in response to the call 
Captain Yan Swearingen, with fourteen men, arrived from Cross 
Creek, and fought his way into the fort without the loss of a man. 
Soon afterwards, a party of forty horsemen, led by the brave and 
intrepid Major Samuel McCulloch, were seen approaching, and en- 
deavoring to force their way through the dense masses of Indians 
which nearly surrounded the station. Their friends within the fort 
made every preparation to receive them, by opening the gates, and 




THE FLIGHT. 



m'culloch's fearful leap. it 

organizing a sortie to cover their attempt. After a desperate hand- 
to-hand conflict, in which they made several of the Indians bite 
the dust, they broke through the lines, and entered the fort in 
triumph, without the loss of an individual. All except their daring 

leader succeeded in the effort. 
He was cut off, and forced to fly 
in an opposite direction. McCul- 
loch was as well known to the 
Indians as to the whites for his 
deeds of prowess, and his 
^^ name was associated in 
their minds with some of 
the most bloody fights in 
which the white and red 
men had contended. To secure him alive, therefore, that they might 
glut their vengeance upon him, was the earnest desire of the Indians, 
and to this end they put forth the most superhuman exertions. 
There were very few among their number who had not lost a relative 
by the unerring aim and skill of the fearless woodsman, and they 
cherished toward him an almost frenzied hatred, which could only 
be satisfied in his tortures at the stake. 

"With such feelings and incentives, they crowded around him as 
he dashed forward in the rear of his men, and succeeded in cutting 
him off from the gate. Finding himself unable, after the most 
strenuous exertions, to accomplish his entrance, and seeing the 
uselessness of a conflict with such a force opposed to him, he sud- 
denly wheeled his horse and fled in the direction of Wheeling hill at 
his utmost speed. A cloud of warriors started up at his approach, 
and cut off his retreat in this direction, driving him back upon 
another party who blocked up the path behind ; while a third closed 
2 



18 



m'culloch's fearful leap. 



in upon him on one of the other sides of the square. The fourth 
and open side was in the direction of the brow of a precipitous ledge 
of rocks, nearly one hundred and fifty feet in height, at the foot 
of which flowed the waters of Wheeling creek. As he momentarily 
halted and took a rapid survey of the dangers which surrounded hira 
on all sides, he felt that his chance was indeed a desperate one. 
The Indians had not fired a shot, and he well knew what this por- 
tended, as they could easily have killed him had they chosen to do 
so. He appreciated the feeling of hatred felt towards him by the 
foe, and saw at a glance the intention to take hira alive if possible, 
that his ashes might be offered up as a sacrifice to the spirits of their 
departed friends slain by his hand. This was to die a thousand 
deaths, in preference to which he determined to run the risk of being- 
dashed in pieces ; and he struck his heels against the sides of his 
steed, which sprang forward toward the precipice. 

The encircling warriors had rapidly lessened the space between 
them and their intended victim, and as they saw him so completely 
within their toils, raised a yell of triumph, little dreaming of the 
fearful energy which was to baffle their expectations. As they saw 

him push his horse in the direction 
of the precipice, which they had 
supposed an insurmountable ob- 
stacle to his escape, they stood in 
wonder and amazement, scarcely 
believing that it could be his in- 
tention to attempt the awful leap, 
which was, to all appearances, 
certain death. McCulloch still 
bore his rifle, which he had re- 




THE PURSUIT. 



tained, in his right hand, and carefully gathering up the bridle 



m'culloch's fearful leap. 19 

in his left, he urged his noble animal forward, encouraging him 
by his voice, until they reached the edge of the bank, when, dash- 
ing his heels against his sides, they made the fearful leap into the 
air. Down, down they went, with fearful velocity, without resist- 
ance or impediment, until one-half of the space was passed over, 
when the horse's feet struck the smooth, precipitous face of the 
rock, and the remainder of the distance was slid and scrambled over 
until they reached the bottom, alive and uninjured. With a shout 
which proclaimed his triumphant success to his foe above him, 
McCulloch pushed his steed into the stream, and in a few moments 
horse and rider were seen surmounting the banks on the opposite 
side. 

No pursuit was attempted, nor was a shot fired at the intrepid 
rider. His enemies stood in awe-struck silence upon the brow of the 
bank from whence he had leaped, and as he disappeared from their 
view they returned to the investment of the fort. They did not long 
continue their unavailing efforts, however, for its capture ; the nu- 
merous additions it had received to its garrison, the fearlessness 
exhibited in its defence, together with the feat they had witnessed, 
disheartened them, and they beat a hasty retreat the next morn- 
ing—not, however, until they had reduced to ashes the cabins out- 
side of the stockade, and slaughtered some three hundred head 
of cattle belonging to the settlers. 



20 



THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 



THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 

While 



Louisi- 
ana was yet a 
French province, 
Asa Nolens, with 
his three brothers, 
his brother-in-law, 
a cousin, and their 
wives, tired of their 
settlement on the 
Ohio, floated down 
the Mississippi, and 
" squatted" on the banks of the Red river. Hav- 
ing become involved in a quarrel with certain 
Creoles about a horse-trade, Asa, the leader 
of the party, advised the erection of a block-house, as a means 
of defence against any attack which the Creoles might make. An 
attack was attempted — with what result this narrative, given by 
Nathan Strong, one of the attacked, will disclose : — 

One morning we were working in the bush and circling trees, 
when Righteous, a brother of Asa, rode up full gallop. 

"They're coming !" cried he ; " a hundred of them at least !" 
" Are they far off?" said Asa, quite quietly, and as if he had 
been talking of a heard of deer. 

"They are coming over the prairie. In less than half an hour 
they will be here." 

" How are they marching ? With van and rear guard ? In what 
order ?" 




THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 



21 



"No order at all, but all of a heap together." 

"Good!" said Asa, "they can know but little about bush-fight- 




CRIED HE ; 
AT LEAST ! 



A HUNDRED OF THEM 



JJ y 

^ '^ ing or soldiering of any kind. Now then, the 

women into the block-house." 

Kighteous galloped up to our fort to be there first in case the 
enemy should find it. The women soon followed, carrying what they 
could with them. When we were all in the block-house, we pulled 
up the ladder, made the gate fast, and there we were. 

We felt somehow strange when we found ourselves shut up in- 
side the palisades, and only able to look out through the slits we 
left for our rifles. We weren't used to be confined in a place, and 
it made us right down wolfish. There we remained, however, as 
still as mice. Scarce a whisper was to be heard. Rachel tore up 
old shirts and greased them, for wadding for the guns ; we changed 
our flints, and fixed everything about the rifles properly, while the 
women sharpened our knives and axes, all in silence. 



22 



THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 



Nearly an hour had passed in this way when we heard a shouting 
and screaming, and a few musket-shots ; and we saw through our 
loopholes some Spanish soldiers running backward and forward on 
the crest of the slope on which our houses stood. Suddenly a 
great pillar of smoke arose, then a second, then a third. 

" God be good to us !" said 



Rachel, "they are burning our 
houses." We were all trembling, 
and quite pale with rage. When 
men have been slaving and sweat- 
ing for four or five months to 
build houses for their wives and 
for the poor worms of children, 
and then a parcel of devils come 
and burn them down like maize- 

GOD BE GOOD TO VS:" 

SAID RACHEL," "THEY stalks lu a stubblc-field, it is no 

ARE BURNING OUR 

HOUSES." wonder that their teeth should 

grind together, and their fists clench of themselves. So it was 
with us ; but we said nothing, for our rage would not let us speak. 
But presently, as we strained our eyes through the loopholes, the Span- 
iards showed themselves at the opening of the forest yonder, coming 
toward the block-house. We tried to count them, but at first it 
was impossible, for they came on in a crowd, without any order. 
They thought little enough of those they were seeking, or they 
would have been more prudent. However, when they came within 
five hundred paces, they formed ranks and we were able to count 
them. There were eighty-two foot-soldiers with muskets and car- 
bines, and three officers on horseback, with drawn swords in their 
hands. The latter dismounted, and their example was followed by 
seven other horsemen, among whom we recognized three of the 




THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 23 

rascally Creoles who had brought all this trouble upon us. He 
they called Croupier was among them. The other four were also 
Creoles, Acadians or Canadians. We had seen lots of their sort 
on the Upper Mississippi, and fine hunters they were, but mostly 
wild, drunken, debauched barbarians. 

The Acadians came on in front and they set up a whoop when 
they saw the block-house and stockade; but finding we were pre- 
pared to receive them, they retreated upon the main body. We 
saw them speaking to the officers, as if advising them; but the 
latter shook their heads, and the soldiers continued moving on. 
They were in uniforms of all colors-blue, white, and brown, but 
each man dirtier than his neighbor. They marched in good order, 
nevertheless, the captain and officers coming on in front, and the 
Acadians keeping on the flanks. The latter, however, edged gra- 
dually off toward the cotton-trees, and presently disappeared among 

them. 

-Them be the first men to pick off," said Asa, when he saw this 
maneuver of the Creoles. " They've steady hands and -sharp eyes ; 
but if we get rid of them, we need not mind others." 

The Spaniards were now within a hundred yards of us. , 
"Shall I let fly at the thievin' incendiaries?" said Righteous. 
" God forbid 1" replied Asa, quite solemn-Uke. "We will defend 
ourselves like men ; but let us wait till we are attacked-and may 
the blood that is shed lie at the door of the aggressors." 

The Spaniards now saw plainly that they would have to take the 
stockade before they could get at us, and the officers seemed con- 
sulting together. 

" Halt !" cried Asa, suddenly. 

^^ Messieurs les Americainsr said the captain, looking up* at oar 

loopholes. 



24 



THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 




" What's your pleasure ?" demanded Asa. 

Upon this the captain stuck a dirty pocket-handkerchief upon 

the point of his sword, and laugh- 
ing with his officers, moved some 
twenty paces forward, followed 
by the troops. Thereupon Asa 
again shouted to him to halt. 

" This is not according to the 
customs of war," said he. " The 
flag of truce may advance, but if 
it is accompanied, we fire," 

It was evident that the Span- 
iards never dreamed of our at- 

THE CAPTAIN STUCK A DIRTY POCKET-HAND- 
KERCHIEF UPON TKE POINT OF HIS SWORD, tempting to reslst them ; for there 

they stood in line before us, and if we had fired, every shot must 
have told. The Acadians, who kept themselves all this time snug 
behind the cotton-trees, called more than once to the captain to 
withdraw his men into the wood ; but he only shook his head con- 
temptuously. When, however, he heard Asa threaten to fire, he 
looked puzzled, as if he thought it just possible we might do as we 
said. He ordered his men to halt, and called out to us not to fire 
till he had explained what they came for. 

"Then cut it short," cried Asa, sternly. "You'd have done better 
to explain before you burned down our houses, like a pack of Mo- 
hawks on the war-path." 

As he spoke three bullets whistled from the edge of the forest, 
and struck the stockades within a few inches of the loophole at 
which he stood. They were fired by the Creoles, who, although 
they could not possibly distinguish Asa, had probably seen his rifle 
barrel glitter through the opening. As soon as they had fired, they 



THE BLOODY BLOCK- HOUSE. 



25 



sprang behind their trees again, craning their heads forward to hear 
if there was a groan or a cry. They'd have done better to have 
kept quiet ; for Eighteous and I caught sight of them, and let fly at 
the same moment. Two of them fell and rolled from behind the 
trees, and we saw that they were the Creole called Croupier, and 
another of our horse-dealing friends. ■ 




TWO OP THEM FELL AND ROLLED FRO.M BEHIND THE TREES. 

When the Spanish officer heard the shots, he ran back to his men, 
and shouted out, " Forward ! To the assault !" They came on 
like mad, for a distance of thirty paces, and then, as if they thought 
we were wild geese, to be frightened by their noise, they fired a 
volley against the block-house. 

" Now then !" cried Asa, " are you loaded, Nathan and Eight- 
eous ? I take the captain — you^ Nathan, the lieutenant— Eighteous, 
the third officer — James, the sergeant. Mark your men, and waste 
no powder." 

The Spaniards were still some sixty yards off, but we were sure 



26 



THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 



of our mark at a hundred and sixty; and that if they had been 
squirrels instead of men. We fired : the captain and lieutenant, 
the third officer, two sergeants, and another man, writhed for an in- 
stant upon the grass. The next moment they stretched themselves 
out — dead. 

All was now confusion among the musketeers, who ran in every 
direction. Most of them took to the wood, but about dozen re- 
mained and lifted up their officers, to see if there was any spark of 
life left in them. 

" Load again — quick !" said Asa, in a low voice. We did so ; 
and six more Spaniards tumbled over. Those who still kept their 
legs ran off as if the soles of their shoes had been of red-hot iron. 

We set to work to pick out our touch-holes and clean our rifles, 
knowing that we might not have time later, and that a single miss- 
fire might cost us all our lives. We then loaded, and began calcu- 
lating what the Spaniards would do next. It is true they had lost 
their officers ; but there were five Acadians with them, and those 

were the men we had most 
reason to fear. Meantime 
the vultures and turkey- 
buzzards had already begun 
to assemble, and presently 
hundreds of them were circ- 
ling and hovering over the 
carcasses, which they as yet 
feared to touch. 
Just then Righteous, who 

HEANTIME THE VULTURES AND TURKEY-BUZZARDS 

HAD ALREADY BEGUN TO ASSEMBLE. had thO SharpCSt QJQ Of US 

all, pointed to the corner of the wood, just yonder, where it joins 
the bushwood thicket. I made a sign to Asa, and we all looked, 




THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 2t 

and saw there was something creeping and moving through the 
underwood. Presently we distinguished two Acadians heading a 
score of Spaniards, and endeavoring, under cover of the bushes, to 
steal across the open ground to the east side of the forest. 

" The Acadians for you, Nathan and Righteous— the Spaniards 
for us," said Asa. The next moment two Acadians and four Span- 
iards lay bleeding in the brushwood. But the bullets were scarcely 
out of our rifles when a third Acadian, whom we had not seen, 
started up, "Now's the time," shouted he, "before they have 
loaded again. Follow me ! — we will have their block-house yet." 
And he sprang across, followed by the Spaniards. Although we 
had killed and disabled a score of our enemies, those who remained 
were more than ten to one of us ; and we were even worse off than 
at first, for then they were altogether, and now we had them on 
each side of us. But we did not let ourselves be discouraged, al- 
though we could not help feeling that the odds against us were 
fearfully great. 

We had now to keep a sharp look-out ; for if one of us showed 
himself at a loophole, a dozen bullets rattled about his ears. 
There were many shot-holes through the palisades, which were 
covered with white streaks where the splinters had been torn ofif by 
the lead. The musketeers had spread themselves all along the edge 
of the forest, and had learned by experience to keep close to their 
cover. We now and then got a shot at them, and four or five 
more were killed ; but it was slow work, and the time seemed very 
long. 

Suddenly the Spaniards set up a loud shout. At first we could 
not make out what was the matter, but presently we heard a hissing 
and crackling on the roof of the block-house. They had wrapped 
tow around their cartridges, and one of the shots had set light to 



28 THE BLOODY BLOCK- HOUSE. 

the fir-boards. Just as we found it out, they gave three more 
hurrahs, and we saw the dry planks begin to flame, and the fire to 
spread. 

"We must put that out, and at once," said Asa, "if we don't wish 
to be roasted alive. Some one must get up the chimney with a 
bucket of water. I'll go myself." 

" Let me go, Asa," said Righteous. 

" You stop here. It don't matter who goes. The thing will be 
done in a minute." 

He put a chair on the table, and got upon it, and then seizing a 
bar which was fixed across the chimney to hang hams upon, he 
drew himself up by his arms, and Rachel handed him a pail of 
water. All this time the flame was burning brighter, and the Span- 
iards getting louder in their rejoicings and hurrahs. Asa stood upon 
the bar, and raising the pail above his head, poured the water out 
of the chimney upon the roof. 

" More to the left, Asa," said Righteous ; " the fire is strongest 
to the left." 

"Tarnation seize it !" cried Asa, "I can't see. Hand me another 
pailful." 

We did so ; and when he had got it, he put his head out at the 
top of the chimney to see where the fire was, and threw the water 
over the exact spot. But at the very moment that he did, the 
report of a dozen of muskets was heard. 

" Ha !" cried Asa, in an altered voice, " I have it." And the 
hams and bucket came tumbling down the chimney, and Asa after 
them, all covered with blood. 

" In God's name, man, are you hurt ?" cried Rachel. 

" Hush, wife !" replied Asa ; " keep quiet. I have enough for 
the rest of my life, which won't be long : but never mind, lads ; 



THE BLOODY BLOCK- HOUSE. 




"ASA! my beloved ASA!" shrieked RACHEL; 
"if TOU die, I SHALL DIE TOO." 



defend yourselves well, and don't fire two at the same man. Save 
your lead, for you will want it all. Promise me that." 

"Asa! my beloved Asa!" 
shrieked Rachel ; " if you die, 
I shall die too." 

" Silence ! foolish woman ; 
and think of our child, and 
the one yet unborn ! Hark ! 
I hear the Spaniards ! De- 
fend yourselves ; and Nathan, 
be a father to my children." 
I had barely time to press 
his hand and promise. The Spaniards, who had guessed our loss, 
rushed like mad wolves up the mound, twenty on one side, and 
thirty or more on the other. 

" Steady !" cried I. " Righteous, here with me ; and you, Rachel, 
show yourself worthy to be Hiram Strong's daughter, and Asa's 
wife : load this rifle for me while I fire my own." 

" God ! God !" cried Rachel ; " the hell-hounds have mur- 
dered my Asa !" 

She clasped her husband's body in her arms, and there was no 
getting her away. I felt sad enough, myself, but there was scanty 
time for grieving ; for a party of Spaniards, headed by one of the 
Acadians, was close up to the mound on the side which I was de- 
fending. I shot the Acadian ; but another, the sixth, and last but 
one, took his place. " Rachel !" cried I, " the rifle, for God's sake, 
the rifle ! a single bullet may save all our lives." 

But no Rachel came ; and the Acadian and Spaniards, who, from 
the cessation of our fire, guessed that we were either unloaded, or 
had cxnended our ammunition, now sprang forward, and by climb- 



30 



THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 



ing, and scrabbling, and getting on one another's shoulders, 
managed to scale the side of the mound, almost perpendicular as 
it then was. And in a minute the Acadian and half a dozen Span- 
iards with axes, were chopping away at the palisades, and sever- 
ing the wattles which bound them together. To give the devil 
his due, if there had been three like that Acadian, it would have 
been all up with us. He handled his axe like a real backwoodsman; 
but the Spaniards wanted either the skill or the strength of arm, 
and made little impression. There were only Righteous and myself 
to oppose them ; for a dozen more soldiers, with the seventh of 
those cursed Acadians, were attacking the other side of the stockade. 

Eighteous shot down one of 
the Spaniards; but just as he 
had done so, the Acadian tore up 
a palisade by the roots, (how he 
did it I know not to this hour,) 
1 1 held it with the wattles and 
branches hanging round it like a 
shield before him, guarding ofi" a 
f— blow I aimed at him, then hurled 
it against me with such force 

RIGHTEOUS SHOT DOWN ° 

ONE OF THE SPANIARDS, that I staggcrcd backward, and 
he sprang past me. I thought it was all over with 
us. It is true that Righteous, with the butt of his rifle, split the 
skull of the first Spaniard who entered, and drove his hunting-knife 
into the next ; but the Acadian alone was man enough to give us 
abundant occupation, now he had got in our rear. Just then there 
was a crack of a rifle, the Acadian gave a leap into the air and fell 
dead, and at the same moment my son Godsend, a boy ten years old, 
sprang forward, in his hand Asa's rifle, still smoking from muzzle 




TB^ BLOODY BLOCK- HOUSE. 31 

and touch-hole. The glorious boy had loaded the piece when he 
saw that Eachel did not do it, and in the very nick of time had shot 
the Acadian through the heart. This brought me to myself again, 
and with ax in one hand and knife in the other, I rushed in 
among the Spaniards, hacking and hewing right and left. It was a 
real butchery, which lasted a good quarter of an hour, as it seemed 
to me, but certainly some minutes ; until at last the Spaniards got 
sick of it, and would have done so sooner had they known that their 
leader was shot. They jumped off* the mound and ran away, such 
of them as were able. Eighteous and I put the palisade in its place 
again, securing it as well as we conld, and then telling my boy to 
keep watch, ran over to the other side, where a desperate fight was 
going on. 

Three of our party, assisted by the women, were defending the 
stockade against a score of Spaniards, who kept poking their 
bayonets between the palisades, till all our people were wounded 
and bleeding. But Eachel had now recovered from her first grief 
at her husband's death, or rather it had turned to rage and revenge, 
and there she was like a furious tigress, seizing the bayonets as 
they were thrust through the stockade, and wrenching them oflT the 
muskets, and sometimes pulling the muskets themselves out of the 
soldiers' hands. But all this struggling had loosened the palisades, 
and there were one or two openings in them through which the 
thin-bodied Spaniards, pushed on by their comrades, were able to 
pass. Just as we came up, two or three of these copper-colored 
Dons had squeezed themselves through, without their muskets, but 
with their short sabres in their hands. They are active, dangerous 
fellows, those Spaniards, in a hand-to-hand tussle. One of them 
sprang at me, and if it had not been for my hunting-knife, I was 
done for, for I had no room to swing my ax ; but as he came on T 



32 



THE BLOODY BLOCK-HOUSE. 



hit him a blow with my fist, which knocked him down, and then ran 
my knife into him, and jumping over his body snatched a musket 
out of Eachel's hand, and began laying about me with the butt-end 
of it. I was sorry not to have my rifle, which was handier than 
those heavy Spanish muskets. The women were now in the way — 
we hadn't room for so many — so I called out to them to get into 
the block-house and load the rifles. There was still another 
Acadian alive, and I knew that the fight wouldn't end till he was 

one for. But while we were 
fighting. Godsend and the women 
loaded the rifles and brought 
them out, and firing through the 
stockade, killed three or four, 
and, as luck would have it, the 
Acadian was one of the number. 
So when the Spaniards, who are 
just like hounds, and only come 
on if led and encouraged, saw 
•LOADING THE RIFLES. tliclr Icadcr had fallen, they 

sprang off the mound, with a ''Carajo! MalditosV and ran away 
as if a shell had burst among them. 

I couldn't say how long the fight lasted ; it seemed short, we were 
so busy, and yet long, deadly long. It is no joke to have to defend 
one's life, and the lives of those one loves best, against fourscore 
blood-thirsty Spaniards, and that with only half a dozen rifles for 
arms, and a few palisades for shelter. "When it was over we were 
so dog-tired that we fell down where we were, like over-driven oxen, 
and without minding the blood which lay like water on the ground. 
Seven Spaniards and two Acadians lay dead within the stockade. 
We ourselves were all wounded and hacked about, some with knife- 




poe's desperate encounter with big foot. 33 

stabs and sabre-cuts, others with musket-shots ; ugly wounds enough, 
some of them, but none mortal. If the Spaniards had returned 
to the attack, they would have made short work of us ; for as soon 
as we left off fighting, and our blood cooled, we became stiff and 
helpless. But now came the women with rags and bandages, and 
washed our wounds and bound them up, and we dragged ourselves 
into the block-house and lay down upon our mattresses of dry leaves. 
And Godsend loaded the rifles and a dozen Spanish muskets that 
were lying about, to be in readiness for another attack, and the 
women kept watch while we slept. But the Spaniards had had 
enough, and we saw no niore of them. Only the next morning, 
when Jonas went down the ladder to reconnoiter, he found thirty 
dead and dying, and a few wounded, who begged hard for a drink 
of water, their comrades having deserted them. We got them up 
into the block-house and had their wounds dressed, and after a 
time they were cured and left us. 



POE'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER WITH BIG FOOT. 

About the middle of July, 1782, seven Wyandottcs crossed the 
Ohio a few miles above Wheeling, and committed great depreda- 
tions upon the southern shore, killing an old man whom they found 
alone in his cabin, and spreading terror throughout the neighbor- 
hood. Within a few hours after their retreat, eight men assembled 
from different parts of the small settlement and pursued the enemy 
with great expedition. Among the most active and efficient of the 
party were two brothers, Adam and Andrew Poe. Adam was par- 
ticularly popular. In strength, action, and hardihood, he had no 
equal — being finely formed and inured to all the perils of the woods. 



34 



POE'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER WITH BIG FOOT. 



They had not followed the trail far, before they became satisfied 
that the depredators were conducted by 'Big Foot, a renowned 

chief of the Wyandotte tribe, 
who derived his name from 
the immense size of his feet. 
His height considerably ex- 
ceeded six feet, and his 
strength was represented as 
Herculean. He had also 
five brothers, but little in- 
ferior to himself in size and 
courage, and as they gene- 
rally wont in company, they 
were the terror of the whole 
country. Adam Poe was 
overjoyed at the idea of 
measuring his strength with that of so celebrated a chief, and urged 
the pursuit with a keenness which quickly brought him into the 
vicinity of the enemy. 

For the last few miles, the trail had led them up the southern 
bank of the Ohio, where the footprints in the sand were deep and 
obvious, but, v/hen within a few hundred yards of the point at 
which the whites as well as the Indians were in the habit of cross- 
ing, it suddenly diverged from the stream, and stretched along a 
rocky ridge, forming an obtuse angle with its former direction. 
Here Adam halted for a moment, and directed his brother and the 
other young men to follow the trail with proper caution, while he 
himself still adhered to the river path, which led through clusters 
of willows directly to the point where he supposed the enemy to 
lie. Having examined the priming of his gun, he crept cautiously 




THE BKOTHERS. 



POE'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER WITH BIG FOOT. 35 

througli the bushes, until he had a view of the point of embarca- 
tion Here lay two canoes, empty and apparently deserted. Being 
satisfied, however, that the Indians were close at hand, he relaxed 
nothing of his vigilance, and quickly gained a jutting cliff, which 
huno- immediately over the canoes. 

Hearing a low murmur below, he peered cautiously over, and 

beheld the object of his search. 
The gigantic Big Foot lay below 
him in the shade of a willow, and 



^^S was talking in a low deep tone to 





'^1^ another warrior, who seemed a 
' A ^^ ^J^ mere pigmy by 



i/^*^^ cautiously drew 
back, and cock- 
ed his gun. The 
mark was fair — 
the distance did 
Kaising his rifle 



''>v^ 



THE DISCOVERT. 

not exceed twenty feet, and his aim was unerring, 
slowly and cautiously, he took a steady aim at Big Foofs breast, 
and drew the trigger. His gun flashed. Both Indians sprung to 
their feet with a deep interjeetion of surprise, and for a single 
seeond all three stared upon each other. This inactivity, however, 
was soon over. Adam was too much hampered by the bushes to 
retreat, and setting his life upon a cast of the die, he sprung over 
the bush which had sheltered him, and summoning all his powers, 
leaped boldly down the precipice and alighted upon the breast of 
Big Foot with a shock which bore him to the earth. At the mo- 
me°nt of contact, Adam had also thrown his right arm around the 
neck of the smaller Indian, so that all three came to the earth together. 



36 poe's desperate encounter with big foot. 

At that moment a sharp firing was heard among the bushes 
above, announcing that the other parties were engaged, but the trio 
below were too busy to attend to any thing but themselves. Big 
Foot was for an instant stunned by the violence of the shock, and 
Adam was enabled to keep them both down. But the exertion 
necessary for that purpose was so great, that he had no leisure to 

use his knife. Big Foot 
quickly recovered, and with- 
out attempting to rise, wrap- 
ped his long arms around 
Adam's body, and pressed 
him to his breast with the 
crushing force of a Boa Con- 
^^ stricter. Adam, as we have 
-"^^ already remarked, was a pow- 
,^ I erful man, and had seldom en- 
countered his equal, but never 
^^ had he yet felt an embrace 
like that of Big Foot. He 
instantly relaxed his hold of 
the small Indian, who sprung to his feet. Big Foot then ordered 
him to run for his tomahawk which lay within ten steps, and kill the 
white man, while he held him in his arms. Adam seeing his danger, 
struggled manfully to extricate himself from the folds of the giant, 
but in vain. The lesser Indian approached with his uplifted toma- 
hawk, but Adam watched him closely, and as he was about to strike, 
gave him a kick so sudden and violent as to knock the tomahawk 
from his hand, and send him staggering back into the water. Big 
Foot uttered an exclamation in a tone of deep contempt at the 
failure of his companion, and raising his voice to its highest pitch, 




poe's desperate encounter with big foot. 3T 

thundered out several words in the Indian tongue, which Adam 
could not understand, but supposed to be a direction for a second 
attack. The lesser Indian now again approached, carefully shun- 
ning Adam's heels, and making many motions with his tomahawk, 
in order to deceive him as to the point where the blow would fall. 
This lasted for several seconds, until a thundering exclamation from 
Big Foot, compelled his companion to strike. 

Such was Adam's dexterity and vigilance, however, that he 
managed to receive the tomahawk in a glancing direction upon his 
left wrist, wounding him deeply but not disabling him. He now 
made a sudden and desperate effort to free himself from the arms of 
the giant and succeeded. Instantly snatching up a rifle (for the 
Indian could not venture to shoot for fear of hurting his companion) 
he shot the smaller Indian through the body. But scarcely had he 
done so when Big Foot arose, and placing one hand upon his collar 
and the other upon his hip, pitched him ten feet into the air, as he 
himself would have pitched a child. Adam fell upon his back at 
the edge of the water, but before his antagonist could spring upon 
him, he was again upon his feet, and stung with rage at the idea of 
being handled so easily, he attacked his gigantic antagonist with a 
fury which for a time compensated for inferiority of strength. It 
was now a fair fist fight between them, for in the hurry of the strug- 
gle neither had leisure to draw their knives. 

Adam's superior activity and experience as a pugilist, gave him 
great advantage. The Indian struck awkwardly, and finding him- 
self rapidly dropping to leeward, he closed with his antagonist, and 
again hurled him to the ground. They quickly rolled into the river, 
and the struggle continued with unabated fury, each attempting to 
drown the other. The Indian being unused to such violent ex- 
ertion, and having been much injured by the first shock in his 



33 



poe's desperate encounter with big foot. 




THE SlKUCiOLE 



stomach, was unable to exert the same powers which had given him 
such a decided superiority at first ; and Adam, seizing him by the 

scalp lock, put his head under 
water, and held it there, until the 
faint struggles of the Indian in- 
duced him to believe that he was 
drowned, when he relaxed his 
hold and attempted to draw' his 
knife. The Indian, however, to 
use Adam's own expression, 
"had only been possumming !" 
He instantly regained his feet, 
and in his turn put his adversary under. 

In the struggle, both were carried out into the current beyond 
their depth, and each was compelled to relax his hold and swim for 
his life. There was still one loaded rifle upon the shore, and each 
swam hard in order to reach it, but the Indian proved the most ex- 
pert swimmer, and Adam seeing that he should be too late, turned 
and swam out into the stream, intending to dive and thus frustrate 
his enemy's intention. At this instant, Andrew, having heard that 
his brother was alone in a struggle with two Indians, and in great 
danger, ran up hastily to the edge of the bank above, in order to 
assist him. Another white man followed him closely, and seeing 
Adam in the river, covered with blood, and swimming rapidly from 
shore, mistook him for an Indian and fired upon him, wounding him 
dangerously in the shoulder. Adam turned, and seeing his brother, 
called loudly upon him to " shoot the big Indian upon the shore." 
Andrew's gun, however, was empty, having just been discharged. 
Fortunately, Big Foot had also seized the gun with which Adam 
had shot the lesser Indian, so that both were upon an equality. 



POE'S desperate encounter with Bia FOOT. 39 

The contest now was who should load first. Big Foot poured in 
his powder first, and drawing his ramrod out of its 'sheath in too 
great a hurry threw it into the river, and while he ran to recover it, 
Andrew gained an advantage. Still the Indian was but a second 
too late, for his gun was at his shoulder, when Andrew's ball en- 
tered his breast. The gun dropped from his hands and he fell for- 
ward upon his face upon the very margin of the river. Andrew, 
now alarmed for his brother, who was scarcely able to swim, threw 
down his gun and rushed into the river in order to bring him ashore 
— but Adam, more intent upon securing the scalp of Big Foot as a 
trophy, than upon his own safety, called loudly on his brother to 
leave him alone and scalp the big Indian, who was now endeavoring 
to roll himself into the water, from a romantic desire, peculiar to 
the Indian warrior, of securing his scalp from the enemy. Andrew, 
however, refused to obey, and insisted upon saving the living, before 
attending to the dead. Big Foot, in the mean time, had succeeded 
in reaching the deep water before he expired, and his body was 
borne off by the waves, without being stripped of the ornament and 
pride of an Indian warrior. 

Not a man of the Indians had escaped. Five of Big Foot's bro- 
thers, the flower of the Wyandotte nation, had accompanied him in 
the expedition, and all perished. It is said that the news of this 
calamity threw the whole tribe into mourning. Their remarkable 
size, their courage, and their superior intelligence, gave them im- 
mense influence, which, greatly to their credit, was generally ex- 
erted on the side of humanity. Their powerful interposition had 
saved many prisoners from the stake, and had given a milder char- 
acter to the warfare of the Indians in that part of the country. A 
chief of the same name was alive in that part of the country so late 
as 1792, but whether a brother or a son of Big Foot, is not known. 



40 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 



Adam Poe recovered of his wounds, aud lived many years after 
his memorable conflict ; but never forgot the tremendous " hug" 
which he sustained in the arms of Big Foot. 



ADVEISTTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 

In 1769, Boone left his family at their home upon the Yadkin 
river in North Carolina, and set out, in company with five others, 
to explore the country of Kentucky. 

On the 7th of June they reached Ked river, and from a neighbor- 
ing eminence were enabled to survey the vast plain of Kentucky. 
Here they built a cabin, in order to afford them a shelter from the 

rain which had fallen in immense 
quantities on their march, and 
remained in a great measure sta- 
tionary until December, kilhng a. 
great quantity of game imme- 
^ diately around them. Immense 
herds of buffalo ranged through 
the forest in every direction, 
feeding upon the leaves of the 
cane or the rich and spontaneou-s 
fields of clover. 
On the 22d of December, Boone 
and John Stuart, one of his companions, left their encampment, and 
following one of the numerous paths which the buffalo had made 
through the cane, they plunged boldly into the interior of the forest. 
They had as yet seen no Indians, and the country had been reported 
as totally uninhabited. This was true in a strict sense, for although 




DANIEL BOONE. 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 41 

the southern and northwestern tribes were in the habit of hunting 
here as upon neutral ground, yet not a single wigwam had been 
erected, nor did the land bear the slightest mark of having ever 
been cultivated. The different tribes would fall in with each other, 
and from the fierce conflicts which generally followed these casual 
rencounters, the country had been known among them by the name 
of "the darJc and bloody ground!" The two adventurers soon 
learned the additional danger to which they were exposed. While 
roving carelessly from canebrake to canebrake, and admiring the 
rank growth of vegetation, and the variety of timber which marked 
the fertility of the soil, they were suddenly alarmed by a party of 
Indians, who, springing from their place of concealment, rushed 
upon them with a rapidity which rendered escape impossible. 

They were almost instantly seized, disarmed, and made prisoners. 
Their feelings may be readily imagined. They were in the hands of 
an enemy who knew no alternative between adoption and torture ; 
and the numbers and fleetness of their captors, rendered escape by 
open means impossible, while their jealous vigilance seemed equally 
fatal to any secret attempt. Boone, however, was possessed of a 
temper admirably adapted to the circumstances in which he was 
placed. Of a cold and saturnine, rather than an ardent disposition, 
he was never either so much elevated by good fortune or depressed 
by bad, as to lose for an instant the full possession of all his facul- 
ties. He saw that immediate escape was impossible, but he en- 
courged his companion, and constrained himself to accompany the 
Indians in all their excursions, with so calm and contented an air, 
that their vigilance insensibly began to relax. 

On the seventh evening of their captivity, they encamped in a 
thick canebrake, and having built a large fire, lay down to rest. 
The party whose duty it was to watch, were weary and negligent, 



42 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 




ESCAPE OF BOONE AND STUART. 



and about midnight, Boone, who had not closed an eye, ascertained 
from the deep breathing all around him, that the whole party, in- 
cluding Stuart, was in a deep sleep. Gently and gradually extri- 
cating himself from the Indians 
who lay around him, he walked 
.„ cautiously to the spot where 
Stuart lay, and having succeeded 
in awakening him, without alarm- 
ing the rest, he briefly informed 
him of his determination, and 
exhorted him to arise, make no 
noise, and follow him. Stuart, 
although ignorant of the design, 
and suddenly roused from sleep, fortunately obeyed with equal 
silence and celerity, and within a few minutes they were beyond 
hearing. 

Eapidly traversing the forest, by the light of the stars and the 
barks of the trees, they ascertained the direction in which the camp 
lay, but upon reaching it on the next day, to their great grief, they 
found it plundered and deserted, with nothing to show the fate of 
their companions : and even to the day of his death, Boone knew 
not whether they had been killed or taken, or had voluntarily 
abandoned their cabin and returned. Here, in a few days, they 
were accidentally joined by Boone's brother and another man, who 
had followed them from Carolina, and fortunately stumbled upon 
their camp. This accidental meeting in the bosom of a vast wilder- 
ness, gave great relief to the two brothers, although their joy was 
soon overcast. 

Boone and Stuart, in a second excursion, were again pursued by 
savages, and Stuart was shot and scalped, while Boone fortunately 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 43 

escaped. Within a few days they sustained another calamity, if 
possible, still more distressing. Their only remaining companion 
was benighted in a hunting excursion, and while encamped in the 
woods alone, was attacked and devoured by the wolves. 

The two brothers were thus left in the wilderness, alone, separated 
by several hundred miles from home, surrounded by hostile Indians, 
and destitute of every thing but their rifles. After having had 
such melancholy experience of the dangers to which they were 
exposed, it might be supposed that their fortitude would have given 
way, and that they would instantly have returned to the settle- 
ments. But the most remarkable feature in Boone's character, was 
a calm and cold equanimity which rarely rose to enthusiasm, and 
never sunk to despondence. 

His courage undervalued the danger to which he was exposed, 
and his presence of mind, which never forsook him, enabled him, on 
all occasions, to take the best means of avoiding it. The wilder- 
ness, with all its dangers and privations, had a charm for him, 
which is scarcely conceivable by one brought up in a city; and 
he determined to remain alone, while his brother returned to Caro- 
lina for an additional supply of ammunition, as their original supply 
was nearly exhausted. His situation would seem in the highest 
degree gloomy and dispiriting. The dangers which attended his 
brother on his return were nearly equal to his own ; and each had 
left a wife and children, which Boone acknowledged cost him many 
an anxious thought. 

But the wild and solitary grandeur of the country around him, 
where not a tree had been cut, nor a house erected, was to him an 
inexhaustible source of admiration and delight ; and he says him- 
self, that some of the most rapturous moments of his life were spent 
in those lonely rambles. The utmost caution was necessary to 



44 ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 

avoid the savages, and scarcely less to escape the ravenous hunger 
of the wolves that prowled nightly around him in immense numbers. 
He was compelled frequently to shift his lodgings, and by un- 
doubted signs, saw that the Indians had repeatedly visited his hut 
during his absence. He sometimes lay in canebrakes, without fire, 
and heard the yells of the Indians around him. Fortunately, how- 
ever, he never encountered them. 

On the 27th of July, 1770, his brother returned with a supply of 
ammunition; and with a hardihood, which appears almost incre- 
dible, they ranged through the country in every direction, and with- 
out injury, until March, 1771. They then returned to North Caro- 
lina, where Daniel rejoined his family, after an absence of three 
years, during nearly the whole of which time he had never tasted 
bread or salt, nor seen the face of a single white man, with the ex- 
ception of his brother, and the two friends who had been killed. 
He here determined to sell his farm, and remove, with his family, 
to the wilderness of Kentucky. 

Accordingly, on the 25th of September, 1771, having disposed of 
all the property which he could not take with him, he took leave 
of his friends and commenced his journey to the west. A number 
of milk cows, and horses, laden with a few necessary utensils, formed 
the whole of his baggage. His wife and children were mounted on 
horseback and accompanied him, every one regarding them as de- 
voted to destruction. In Powell's valley they were joined by five 
more families and forty men well armed. Encouraged by this ac- 
cession of strength, they advanced with additional confidence, but 
had soon a severe warning of the further dangers which awaited 
them. When near Cumberland mountain, their rear was suddenly 
attacked with great fury by a scouting party of Indians, and thrown 
into considerable confusion. 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 45 

The party, however, soon rallied, and being accustomed to Indian 
warfare, returned the fire with such spirit and efifect, that the Indians 
were repulsed with slaughter. Their own loss, however, had been 
severe. Six men were killed upon the spot, and one wounded. 

Among the killed was Boone's 
eldest son, to the unspeak- 
able affliction of his family. 
The disorder and grief oc- 
casioned by this rough recep- 
tion, seems to have affected 
the emigrants deeply, as they 
instantly retraced their steps 
to the settlements on Clinch 
river, forty miles from the 

BOONE FIGHTING OVER THE DEAH BODY OF HIS SON. SCeUC Of aCtiOtt. HerO thCy 

remained until June, 1774, probably at the request of the women, 
who must have been greatly alarmed at the prospect of plunging 
more deeply into a country, upon the skirts of which they had wit- 
nessed so keen and bloody a conflict. 

At this time, Boone, at the request of Governor Dunmore, of 
Yirginia, conducted a number of surveyors to the falls of Ohio, a 
distance of eight hundred miles. After his return, he was engaged 
under Dunmore until 1775 in several affairs with the Indians, and 
at the solicitation of some gentlemen of North Carolina, he at- 
tended at a treaty with the Cherokees, for the purpose of purchas- 
ing the lands south of Kentucky river. 

It was under the auspices of Col. Richard Henderson, that 
Boone's next visit to Kentucky was made. Leaving his family on 
Clinch river, he set out at the head of a few men, to mark out a 
road for the pack horses or wagons of Henderson's party. This 




46 



ADVENTURES OP DANIEL BOONE. 



laborious and dangerous duty, he executed with his usual patient 
fortitude, until he came within fifteen miles of the spot where 
Boonesborough afterwards was built. Here, on the 22nd of March, 
his small party was attacked by the Indians, and suffered a loss of 
four men killed and wounded. The Indians, although repulsed with 
loss in this affair, renewed the attack with equal fury on the next 
day, and killed and wounded five more of his party. On the 1st 

of April, the survivors began 
to build a small fort on the 
Kentucky river, afterwards 
called Boonesborough, and 
on the 4th, they were again 
attacked by the Indians, and 
lost another man. Notwith- 
standing the harassing at- 
tacks to which they were 
constantly exposed, (for the 
Indians seemed enraged to 
THE FORT AT BOONESBOROUGH. madncss at tlic prospcct of 

their building houses on their hunting ground,) the work was 
prosecuted with indefatigable diligence, and on the 14th was 
completed. 

Boone instantly returned to Clinch river for his family, deter- 
mined to bring them with him at every risk. This was done as 
soon as the journey could be performed, and Mrs. Boone and her 
daughters were the first white women who stood upon the banks 
of the Kentucky river, as Boone himself had been the first white 
man who ever built a cabin upon the borders of the state. 

Within a few weeks after the arrival of Mrs. Boone and her 
daughters, the infant colony was reinforced by three more families. 




ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 



4t 



Boonesborougli, however, was the central object of Indian hostili- 
ties, and scarcely had his family become domesticated in their new 
possession, when they were suddenly attacked by a party of In- 
dians, and lost one of their garrison. This was on the 24th of 
December, 1775. 

In the following July, however, a much more alarming incident 
occurred. One of his daughters, in company with a Miss Callo- 
way, were amusing themselves in the immediate neighborhood of 
the fort, when a party of Indians suddenly rushed out of a cane- 
brake, and, intercepting their return, took them prisoners. The 




CAPTURE OF BOONE S DAUGnTER. 



screams of the terrified girls quickly alarmed the family. The 
small garrison was dispersed in their usual occupations ; but Boone 
hastily collected a small party of eight men, and pursued the 
enemy. So much time, however, had been lost, that the Indians 
had got several miles the start of them. The pursuit was urged 
through the night with great keenness, by woodsmen capable of 



48 ADVENTURES OP DANIEL BOONE. 

following a trail at all times, and on the following day they came up 
with them. 

The attack was so sudden and furious, that the Indians were 
driven from their ground before they had leisure to tomahawk their 
prisoners, and the girls were recovered without having sustained 
any other injury, than excessive fright and fatigue. Nothing but a 
barren outline of this interesting occurrence has been given. The 
Indians lost two men, while Boone's party was uninjured. 

From this time until the 15th of April, 1777 the garrison was 
incessantly harassed by flying parties of Indians. While ploughing 
their corn, they were waylaid and shot ; while hunting they were 
chased and fired upon ; and sometimes a solitary Indian would 
creep up near the fort, in the night, and fire upon the first of the 
garrison who appeared in the morning. They were in a constant 
state of anxiety and alarm, and the most ordinary duties could only 
be performed at the risk of their lives. 

On the 15th of April the enemy appeared in large numbers, 
hoping to crush the infant settlement at a single blow. Boones- 
borough, Logan's Fort, and Harrodsburgh, were attacked at one 
and the same time. But, destitute as they were of artillery, scal- 
ing ladders, and all the proper means of reducing fortified places, 
they could only distress the men, alarm the women, and destroy the 
corn and cattle. Boonesborough sustained some loss, as did the 
other stations, but the enemy being more exposed, suffered so 
severely as to retire with precipitation. 

No rest, however, was given to the unhappy garrison. On the 
4th of July following, they were again attacked by two hundred 
warriors, and again repulsed the enemy with loss. Tlie Indians re- 
treated ; but a few days afterwards, fell upon Logan's station with 
great fury, having sent detachments to alarm the other stations, so 



ADVENTURES OP DANIEL BOONE. 



49 



as to prevent the appearance of reinforcements to Logan's. In this 
last attempt, they displayed great obstinacy, and as the garrison 
consisted only of fifteen men, they were reduced to extremity. Not 
a moment could be allowed for sleep. Burning arrows were shot 
upon the roofs of the houses, and the Indians often pressed boldly 
up to the gates, and attempted to hew them down with their toma- 
hawks. Fortunately, at this 
critical time, Colonel Bow- 
man arrived from Virginia 
with one hundred men, well 
armed, and the savages pre- 
cipitately withdrew, leaving 
the garrison almost exhaust- 
ed with fatigue, and reduced 
to twelve men. 
^(fiWW'^/^'^AVt A brief period of repose 

now followed, in which the 

KENTON SAVING THE LIFE OP BOONE. ' 

settlers endeavored to repair the damages done to their farms. 
But a period of heavy trial to Boone and his family was approach- 
ing. In January, 1778, accompanied by thirty men, Boone went 
to the Blue Licks to make salt for the different stations ; and on 
the 7th of February following, while out hunting, he fell in with 
one hundred and two Indian warriors, on their march to attack 
Boonesborough. He instantly fled, but, being upwards of fifty 
years old, was unable to contend with the fleet young men who 
pursued him, and was a second time taken prisoner. As usual, he 
was treated with kindness until his final fate was determined, and 
was led back to the Licks, where his men were still encamped. 
Here his whole party, to the number of twenty-seven, surrendered 




50 



ADVENTURES OP DANIEL BOONE. 



themselves, upon the promise of life and good treatment, both of 
which conditions were faithfully observed. 

Had the Indians prosecuted their enterprise, they might, perhaps, 
by showing their prisoners, and threatening to put them to torture, 
have operated so far upon the sympathies of the garrisons, as to 
have obtained considerable results. Bat nothing of the kind was 
attempted. They had already been unexpectedly successful ; and it 
is their custom, after good or bad fortune, immediately to return 
home and enjoy their triumph, or lament their ill success. Boone 
and his party were conducted to the old town of Chillicothe, where 
they remained untill the following March. No journal was written 
during this period by either Boone, or his party. We are only in- 
formed that his mild and pa- 
tient equanimity wrought 
powerfully upon the Indians ; 
/ that he was adopted into a 
jj family, and uniformly treated 
/ with the utmost affection. 
nM'^a One fact is given us which 
/^ shows his acute observation, 
^^^^^n ^^^ knowledge of mankind. 
At the various shooting 
BooKK TAKEN TO DETROIT. matchcs to which he was in- 

vited, he took care not to beat too often. He knew that no 
feeling is more painful than that of inferiority, and that the most 
effectual way of keeping them in a good humor with him, was to keep 
them in a good humor with themselves. lie, therefore, only shot 
well enough, to make it an honor to beat him, and thus found him- 
self a universal favorite. 

On the 10th of March, 1778, Boone was conducted to Detroit, 




ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 51 

where Governor Hamilton himself offered £100 for his ransom ; but 
so strong was the affection of the Indians for their prisoner, that it 
was positively refused. Several English gentlemen, touched with 
sympathy for his misfortunes, made pressing offers of money and 
other articles, but Boone steadily refused to receive benefits which 
he could never return. The offer was honorable to them, and the 
refusal was dictated by rather too refined a spirit of independence. 
Boone's anxiety on account of his wife and children, was incessant, 
and the more intolerable, as he dared not excite the suspicion of the 
Indians by any indication of a wish to rejoin them. 

Upon his return from Detroit, he observed that one hundred and 
fifty warriors of various tribes had assembled, painted and equipped 
for an expedition against Boonesborough. His anxiety at this sight 
became ungovernable, and he determined, at every risk, to effect his 
escape. During the whole of this agitating period, however, he per- 
mitted no symptoms of anxiety to escape him. He hunted and shot 
with them, as usual, until the morning of the IGth of June, when, 
taking an early start, he left Chillicothe, and directed his route to 
Boonesborough. The distance exceeded one hundred and sixty miles, 
but he performed it in four days, during which he ate only one meal. 
He appeared before the garrison like one risen from the dead. 

His wife, supposing him killed, had transported herself, children, 
and property to her father's house, in North Carolina; his men, 
suspecting no danger, were dispersed in their ordinary avocations, 
and the works had been permitted to go to waste. Not a moment 
was to be lost. The garrison worked day and night upon the forti- 
fications. New gates, new flanks, and double bastions, were soon 
completed. The cattle and horses were brought into the fort, am- 
munition prepared, and every thing made ready for the approach 
of the enemy within ten days after his arrival. At this time, one 



52 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 



of his companions in captivity arrived from Chillicothe, and an- 
nounced that his escape had determined the Indians to delay the 
invasion for three weeks. 

During this interval, it was ascertained that numerous spies were 
traversing the woods and hovering around the station, doubtless for 
the purpose of observing and reporting the condition of the gar- 
rison. Their report could not have been favorable. The alarm had 
spread very generally, and all were upon the alert. The attack was 
delayed so long, that Boone began to suspect that they had been 
discouraged by the report of the spies ; and he determined to in- 
vade them. Selecting nine- 
teen men from his garrison, 
he put himself at their head, 
and marched with equal si- 
lence and celerity, against 
the town of Paint Creek, on 
the Scioto. He arrived, with- 
out discovery, within four 
miles of the town, and there 
encountered a party of thirty 
warriors on their march to 




INDIAN ENCAMPMENT. 



unite with the grand army in the expedition against l^oonesborough. 
Instantly attacking them with great spirit, he compelled them to 
give way with some loss, and without any injury to himself. He 
then halted, and sent two spies in advance, to ascertain the con- 
dition of the village. In a few hours they returned with the intel- 
ligence that the town was evacuated. He instantly concluded that 
the grand army was upon its march against Boonesborough, whose 
situation, as well as his own, was exceedingly critical. Eetracing 
his steps, he marched day and night, hoping still to elude the 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 53 

enemy, and reach Boouesborougli before them. He soon fell in 
with their trail, and making a circuit to avoid them, tie passed their 
army on the sixth day of their march, and on the seventh reached 
Boonesborough. 

On the eighth, the enemy appeared in great force. There were 
nearly five hundred Indian warriors, armed and painted in their usual 
manner, and what was still more formidable, they were conducted 
by Canadian oflBcers, well skilled in the usages of modern warfare. 
As soon as they were arrayed in front of the fort, the British colors 
were displayed, and an officer, with a flag, was sent to demand the 
surrender of the fort, with a promise of quarter and good treatment 
in case of compliance, and threatening " the hatchet," in case of a 
storm. Boone requested two days for consideration, which, in 
defiance of all experience and common sense, was granted. This 
interval, as usual, was employed in preparation for an obstinate 
resistance. The cattle were brought into the fort, the horses se- 
cured, and all things made ready against the commencement of 
hostilities. 

Boone then assembled the garrison, and represented to them the 
condition in which they stood. They had not now to deal with 
Indians alone, but with British officers, skilled in the art of attack- 
ing fortified places, sufficiently numerous to direct, but too few to 
restrain their savage allies. If they surrendered, their lives might 
and probably would be saved ; but they would suffer much incon- 
venience, and must lose all their property. If they resisted, and 
were overcome, the life of every man, woman, and child, would be 
sacrificed. The hour was now come in which they were to deter- 
mine what was to be done. If they were inclined to surrender, he 
would announce it to the officer ; if they were resolved to maintain 
the fort, he would share their fate, whether in life or death. He 



54 ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 

had scarcely finished, when every man arose and in a firm tone an- 
nounced his determination to defend the fort to the last. 

Boone then appeared at the gate of the fortress, and commu- 
nicate-d to Captain Duquesne the resolution of his men. Disap- 
pointment and chagrin were strongly painted upon the face of the 
Canadian at this answer ; but endeavoring to disguise his feelings, 
he declared, that Governor Hamilton had ordered him not to injure 
the men if it could be avoided, and that if nine of the principal 
inhabitants of the fort would come out into the plain and treat with 
them, they would instantly depart without farther hostility. The 
insidious nature of this proposal was evident, for they could con- 
verse . very well from where they then stood, and going out would 
only place the officers of the fort at the mercy of the savages, not 
to mention the absurdity of supposing that this army of warriors 
v/ould " treat,'" but upon such terms as pleased them, and no terms 
were likely to do so, short of a total abandonment of the country. 

Notwithstanding these obvious objections, the word " treat" 
sounded so pleasantly in the ears of the besieged, that they agreed 
at once to the proposal, and Boone himself, attended by eight of 
his men, went out and mingled wath the savages, who crowded 
around them in great numbers, and with countenances of deep 
anxiety. The treaty then commenced and was soon concluded. 
Duquesne, after many pretty periods about the kindness and hu- 
manity which should accompany the warfare of civilized beings, at 
length informed Boone, that it was a custom with the Indians, upon 
the conclusion of a treaty with the whites, for two warriors to take 
hold of the hand of each white man. 

Boone thought this rather a singular custom, but there was no 
time to dispute about etiquette, particularly as he could not be 
more in their power than he already was ; so he signified his will- 



ADVENTURES OF DANIEL BOONE. 55 

ingness to conform to the Indian mode of cementing- friendship. 
Instantly, two warriors approached each white man, with the word 
"brother" upon their lips, but a very different expression in their 
eyes, and grappling him with violence, attempted to bear him off. 
They expected such a consummation, and all at the same moment 
sprung from their enemies and ran to the fort, under a heavy fire, 
which fortunately only wounded one man. 

The attack instantly commenced by a heavy fire against the 
picketing, and was returned with fatal accuracy by the garrison. 
The Indians quickly sheltered themselves, and the action became ^ 
more cautious and deliberate. Finding but little effect from the 
fire of his men, Duquesne next resorted to a more formidable mode 
of attack. The fort stood on the south bank of the river, within 
sixty yards of the water. Commencing under the bank, where 
their operations were concealed from the garrison, they attempted 
to push a mine into the fort. Their object, however, was fortu- 
nately discovered by the quantity of fresh earth which they were 
compelled to throw into the river, and by which the water became 
muddy for some distance below. Boone instantly cut a trench 
within the fort in such a manner as to intersect the line of their 
approach, and thus frustrated their design. 

The enemy exhausted all the ordinary artifices of Indian warfare, 
but were steadily repulsed in every effort. Finding their numbers 
daily thinned by the deliberate but fatal fire of the garrison, and 
seeing no prospect of final success, they broke up on the ninth 
day of the siege, and returned home. The loss of the garrison 
was two men killed and four wounded. On the part of the sav- ^^ 
ages, thirty-seven were killed and many wounded, who, as usual, 
were all carried off. This was the last siege sustained by Boones- 
borough. The country had increased so rapidly in numbers, and 



56 



ADVENTURES OP DANIEL BOONE. 



SO many other stations lay between Boonesborough and the Ohio, 
that the savages could not reach it, without leaving enemies in 
the rear. 

In the autumn of this year Boone returned to North Carolina 
for his wife and family, the former having, as already observed, 
supposed him dead, and returned to her father. 

In the summer of 1780, he returned to Kentucky with his family 
and settled at Boonesborough. Here he continued busily engaged 
upon his farm until the 6th of October, when, accompanied by his 
brother, he went to the Lower Blue Licks, for the purpose of pro- 
viding himself with salt. This spot seemed fatal to Boone. Here 
he had once been taken prisoner by the Indians, and here he was des- 
tined, within two years, to lose his youngest son, and to witness 



#■ 




THE FIGHT AT THE SALT-WORKS. 



the slaughter of many of his dearest friends. His present visit was 
not free from calamity. Upon their return, they were encountered 
by a party of Indians, and his brother, who had accompanied him 



A PERILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE. 57 

faithfully through many years of toil and danger, was killed and 
scalped before his eyes. 

Unable either to prevent or avenge his death, Boone was com- 
pelled to fly, and by his superior knowledge of the country, con- 
trived to elude his pursuers. They followed his trail, however, by 
the scent of a dog, that pressed him closely, and prevented his con- 
cealing himself. This was one of the most critical moments of his 
life, but his usual coolness and fortitude enabled him to meet it. 
He halted until the dog. baying loudly upon his trail, came within 
gunshot, when he deliberately turned and shot him dead. The 
thickness of the woods and the approach of darkness then enabled 
him to effect his escape. 



A PERILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE. 

One morning in September, 1817, Solomon Sweatland, of Con- 
neaut, on the Ohio shore of Lake Erie, had risen at the earliest 
dawn to enjoy his favorite amusement of hunting deer. This ex- 
citing sport he had been accustomed to follow in connection with a 
friend and neighbor, who, by the aid of dogs, would drive the deer 
into the lake, where Sweatland would pursue them in his canoe and 
shoot them without difficulty. On the present occasion he had left 
his cabin without his coat or waistcoat to listen for the baying of 
the dogs as they drove the deer. The welcome sound soon greeted 
his ears, and he was surprised to find that a noble buck had already 
taken the water, and was some little distance out in the lake. In w^ 
the enthusiasm of the moment he threw his hat upon the beach, 
jumped into his canoe, and put off after the animal, with every 
nerve thrilling with intense interest in the pursuit. The wind, 




68 A PERILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE. 

which had been blowing steadily from the south during the night, 
had now increased to a gale, but he was too intent upon securing 

the valuable prize which was 
Mi^ breasting the waves in advance 

to heed the dictates of prudence. 

The race promised to be a long 
"Sf^ one, for the deer was a powerful 

animal, and was not to be easily 

beaten by a log canoe and a 

~~~ " single paddle. A considerable 

AFTER THE DEER. dlstancc from the land had been 

attained, and the canoe had shipped a heavy sea before he overtook 

the deer, who turned and made for the shore. 

Upon tacking to pursue him, Sweatland was at once apprised of 
his danger by the fact that, with his utmost exertions, he not only 
made no progress in the desired direction, but, on the contrary, was 
drifting further out to sea. He had been observed in his outward 
progress by his neighbor, as well as by his own family, and as he 
disappeared from sight, considerable apprehension was felt for his 
safety. The alarm was soon given in the neighborhood, and it was 
decided by those competent to judge that his return would be im- 
possible, and unless help could be afforded him that he was doomed 
to perish at sea. Actuated by those generous impulses which often 
induce men to risk their own lives to save those of others, three 
neighbors, Messrs. Gilbert, Cousins, and Bel den, took a light boat 
and started in search of the wanderer. They met the deer return- 
ing, but could see nothing of their neighbor and friend. Tliey made 
stretches off shore in the probable range of the fugitive, until they 
reached a distance of five or six miles from from the land, when, 
meeting with a heavy sea in which they deemed it impossible for a 



A PERILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE. 59 

canoe to live, and seeing no signs of it on the vast expanse of 
waters, they reluctantly, and not without difficulty and danger, re- 
turned to shore, and Sweatland was given up as lost. Meantime 
the object of their search was laboring at his paddle, in the vain 
hope that the wind might abate, or that aid might reach him from 
the shore. One or two schooners were in sight in the course of the 
day, but notwithstanding he made every effort to attract the atten- 
tion of their crews, he failed to do so. 

For a long time the shore continued in sight, and as he traced its 
dim and fast-recedmg outline, and recognized the spot where stood his 
cabin, within whose precincts were the cherished objects of his affec- 
tions, now doubly dear from the prospect of losing them forever, he 
felt that the last tie which united him in companionship with his fel- 
low-men was about to be dissolved, and the world, with all its busy 
interests, forever hidden from his sight. Fortunately he possessed 
a cool head and a stout heart, which, united with a considerable 
share of physical strength and power of endurance, eminently 
fitted him for any emergency. He was a good sailor, and his ex- 
perience taught him that while there was life there was hope. That 
experience taught him also, as the outline of the far-off shore dis- 
appeared from his sight, that his only expedient was to endeavor to 
reach the Canada side, a distance of fifty miles. It was now blow- 
ing a gale, and the sea was evidently increasing, so that it required 
the most incredible exertion on his part to trim his uncouth vessel 
to the waves. He was obliged to stand erect, and move cautiously 
from one end to the other, well aware that one lost stroke of the 
paddle, or a tottering movement, would bring his voyage to a sud- 
den termination. Much of his attention was likewise required in 
bailing out the canoe, which he managed to do with one of his sub- 
stantial shoes. Hitherto he had been blessed with the light of day, 



60 



A PERILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE. 



but to add to his distress, night was fast approaching, when he could 
only depend upon a kind Providence to guide him over the dark 
waste of waters. The sky, too, began to be overcast, and an occa- 
sional star which glistened through the haze was all the light 
afforded him through that long and fearful night. Wet to the skin 
by the constant dashing spray ; part of the time in water half up to 
the knees ; so cold that his blood seemed chilled in his veins ; and 
almost famished with hunger, he felt that death was preferable to 
such long-continued suffering, and nothing but the thought of his 
family sustained him in his exertions to keep his boat trimmed and 
headed for the land. 

When morning dawned, the outline of the Canada shore greeted 
his eyes, and he found he had made land in the vicinity of Long Point. 
Here he met with another difficulty, in an adverse wind and heavy 
breakers ; but the same hand which had sustained him thus far 
guided him in this emergency, and after thirty hours of unremitting 

and incredible exertions, he suc- 
ceeded in landing in safety. 
What his emotions were on again 
- treading the green and solid 
j; earth, we shall not attempt to in- 
quire, but his trials were not yet 
»\ ended. He found himself faint 
with hunger, and exhausted with 
fatigue, at the distance of forty 
miles from any human habitation, 
while the country that intervened was a desert filled with marshes 
and tangled thickets, from which nothing could be obtained to supply 
his wants. These difficulties, together with the reduced state of his 
strength, made his progress toward the settlement slow and toilsome. 




ON THE CANADA SHORE. 



A PERILOUS ADVENTURE IN A CANOE. 61 

On his way he found a quantity of goods which had been thrown 
ashore from the wreck of some vessel, which, although they afforded 
him no immediate relief, were afterward of material service. After 
a long and weary march through the wilderness he arrived at length 
at the settlement, where he was received and treated with great 
kindness and hospitality by the people. 

When his strength was sufficiently recruited he procured a boat 
and went in search of his goods. These he found and brought off. 
He then started overland for Buffalo, where he disposed of part of 
his treasure, and with the proceeds furnished himself with a com- 
plete outfit, and finding the Traveler, Captain Charles Brown, from 
Conneaut, in the harbor, he engaged passage on board of her. The 
captain and crew had heard of his disappearance, and looked 
upon him as one risen from the grave. His story was so astonish- 
ing as scarcely to be credible, but as he was there in person to 
verify it, it could not be doubted. Within a day or two he was ou 
his way to join his family, who, he was informed by the captain, had 
given him up for dead, and were wrapped in the deepest despair. His 
feelings can be easily imagined as he approached the vicinity of 
that home which he had never expected again to behold. When 
the packet arrived opposite the house, the crew gave three long, 
loud, and hearty cheers, and fired guns from the deck in token of 
joy, which led his family to anticipate his return. On landing, he 
found that his funeral sermon had been preached, and he had the 
rare privilege of seeing his own widow, clothed in the habiliments 
of deep mourning. 



62 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 

The American authorities found much difficulty in disposing of 
their prisoners. They had no posts regularly fitted for the purpose ; 
and they could suggest no better means for securing them, than to 
place them under guard in a thickly settled part of the country, 
where the inhabitants were most decidedly hostile to the English. 
The town of Lancaster, in Pennsylvania, was one of those selected 
for this purpose. The prisoners were confined in barracks, enclosed 




THE MILITARY BARRACKS AT LANCASTER. 



with a stockade, and vigilantly guarded. But in spite of all pre- 
cautions, they often disappeared in an unaccountable manner, and 
nothing was heard of them till they had resumed their places in the 
English array. Many and various were the conjectures as to the 
means of their escape ; the officers inquired and investigated in vain ; 
the country was explored to no purpose ; the soldiers shook their 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 63 

heads, and told of fortune-tellers, pedlars, and such characters 
who had been seen at intervals ; and sundry of the more credulous 
could think of nothing but supernatural agency ; but whether man 
or spirit was the conspirator, the mystery was unbroken. 

When this became known to Washington, he sent General Hazen 
to take this responsible charge. This energetic officer, after ex- 
hausting all resources, resorted to stratagem. He was convinced 
that, as the nearest British post was more than a hundred miles 
distant, the prisoners must be aided by Americans, but where the 
suspicion should fall, he could not even conjecture, the reproach of 
toryism being almost unknown in that region. Having been 
trained to meet exigencies of this kind in a distinguished career, 
as colonel in the British array, his plan was formed at once, and 
communicated to an officer of his own, upon whose talent he relied 
for its successful execution. This was Captain Lee, whose courage 
and ability fully justified the selection. 

The secret plan concocted between them, was this. It was to 
be given out that Lee was absent on furlough or command. He, 
meanwhile, was to assume the dress of a British prisoner, and, 
having provided himself with information and a story of his cap- 
ture, was to be thrown into the barracks where he might gain the 
confidence of the soldiers, and join them in a plan of escape. 
How well Captain Lee sustained his part, may be inferred from 
the fact that when he had disappeared and placed himself among 
the prisoners, his own officers and soldiers saw him every day 
without the least suspicion. The person to whom the author of 
this sketch is indebted for these particulars, was the intendant of 
the prisoners, and familiar with Lee ; but though compelled to 
see him often in the discharge of his duty, he never penetrated 
the disguise. "Well it was for Lee, that his disguise was so com- 



64 THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 

plete. Had his associates suspected his purpose to betray them, 
his history would have been embraced in the proverb, " dead men 
tell no tales." 

For many days he remained in this situation, making no dis- 
coveries whatever. He thought he perceived at times, signs of 
intelligence between the prisoners and an old woman, who was 
allowed to bring fruit for sale, within the enclosure. She was 
known to be deaf and half witted, and was therefore no object of 
suspicion. It was known that her son had been disgraced and 
punished in the American army, but she had never betrayed any 

malice on that account, and no one 
dreamed that she could have had the 
power to do injury if she possessed 
the will. Lee watched her closely, 
but saw nothing- to confirm his sus- 




picions. 



Her dwelling was about a 
mile distant, a wild retreat where she 



THE OLD FRUIT WOMAN. 



shared her miserable quarters with 
^'^^^ a dog and cat, the former of which 

mounted guard over her mansion, 
while the latter encouraged superstitious fears that were equally 
effectual in keeping visitors away. 

One dark, stormy night, in autumn, he was lying awake at 
midnight, meditating on the enterprise he had undertaken, which, 
though in the beginning it had recommended itself to his romantic 
disposition, had now lost all its charms. It was one of those 
tempests, which in our climate so often hang upon the path 
of the departing year. His companion slept soundly, but the wind, 
which shook the building to its foundation, and threw heavy 
splashes of rain against the window, conspired with the state of 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 



65 



his mind to keep him wakeful. All at once, the door was gently 
opened, and a figure moved silently into the room. It was too 
dark to observe its motions narrowly, but he could see that it 
stooped towards one of the sleepers, who immediately arose ; next 
it approached and touched him on the shoulder. Lee immediately 
started up; the figure then allowed a slight gleam from a dark 
lantern to pass over his face, and as it did so, whispered im- 
patiently, "not the man— but come!" It then occurred to Lee, 
that this was the opportunity so much desired. The unknown then 
whispered to him, to keep his place till another man was called ; 
but just at that moment, some noise disturbed him, and making 
a sign to Lee to follow, he moved silently out of the room. 

They found the door of the house unbarred, and a small part of 
the fence removed, where they passed out without molestation; 
the sentry had retired to a shelter where he thought he could 
guard his post without suffering from the rain ; but Lee saw that 
his conductors put themselves in preparation to silence him if he 

should happen to address 




them. Just without the 
fence, appeared a stooping 
figure, wrapped in a red 
cloak, and supporting itself 
, with a large stick, which Lee 
at once perceived could be 
I no other than the old fruit woman. But the 
imost profound silence was observed; a man 
came out of a thicket at a little distance, and 
joined them, and the whole party moved on- 
ward under the guidance of the old woman. At first, they fre- 
quently stopped to listen, but having heard the sentinels cry, " all's 




THE OLD WOMAN IN A 
NEW CHARACTER. 



66 THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 

well," they seemed reassured, and moved with more confidence 
than before. 

They soon came near to her cottage, under an overhanging bank, 
where a bright light was shining out from a little window upon 
the wet and drooping boughs that hung near it. The dog received 
them graciously, and they entered. A table was spread with some 
coarse provisions upon it, and a large jug, which one of the 
soldiers was about to seize, when the man who conducted them, 
withheld him. 

" No," said he, " we must first proceed to business." He then 
went to a small closet, from which he returned with what seemed 
to have been originally a bible, though now it was worn to a, 
mahogany color, and a spherical form. While they were doing this, 
Lee had time to examine his companions ; one of whom was a 
large, quite good-looking soldier, the other a short, stout man, with 
much the aspect of a villain. They examined him in turn, and as 
Lee had formerly been obliged to punish the shorter soldier 
severely, he felt some misgivings when the fellow's eye rested 
upon him. Their conductor was a middle-aged, harsh-looking man, 
whom Lee had never seen before. 

As no time was to be lost, their guide explained to them in a 
few words, that, before he should undertake his dangerous enter- 
prise, he should require of them to swear upon the scriptures, not 
to make the least attempt to escape, and never to reveal the cir- 
cumstances or agents in the proceeding, whatever might befal them. 
The soldiers, however, insisted on deferring this measure, till they 
had formed some slight acquaintance with the contents of the jug, 
and expressed their sentiments on the subject, rather by actions 
than words. In this they were joined by Lee, who by this time 
had begun to contemplate the danger of the enterprise, in a new 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 67 

and unpleasant point of view. If he were to be compelled to 
accompany his party to New York, his disguise would at once be 
detected, and it was certain that he would be hanged as a spy. 
He had supposed, beforehand, that he should find no difficulty 
in escaping at any moment ; but he saw that their conductor had 
prepared arms for thera, which they were to use in taking the 
life of any one who should attempt to leave them — and then the 
oath. He might possibly have released himself from its obliga- 
tions, when it became necessary for the interests of his country; 
but no honorable man can well bear to be driven to an emergency, 
in which he must violate an oath, however reluctantly taken. He 
felt that there was no retreating, when there came a heavy shock, 
as of something falling against the sides of the house ; their prac- 
ticed ears at once detected the alarm gun ; and their conductor, 
throwing down the old bible, which he had held all the while im- 
patiently in his hand, directed the party to follow him in close 
order, and immediately quitted the house, taking with him his dark 
lantern. 

They went on with great dispatch, but not without difficulty. 
Sometimes their footing would give way on some sandy bank or 
slippery field ; and when their path led through the woods, the 
wet boughs dashed heavily in their faces. Lee felt that he might 
have deserted his precious companions while they were in this 
hurry and alarm ; but he felt that, as yet, he had made no dis- 
coveries ; and however dangerous his situation was, he could not 
bear to confess that he had not nerve to carry it through. On he 
went, therefore, for two or three hours, and was beginning to sink 
with fatigue, when the barking of a dog brought the party to a 
stand. Their conductor gave a low whistle, which was answered 
at no great distance, and a figure came forward in the darkness 



68 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 




who whispered to their guide, and then led the way up to a 
building, which seemed, by the shadowy outline, to be a large 

stone barn. They entered 
it, and were severally placed 
--^ in small nooks where they 
could feel that the hay was 
ill around them, except on 
the side of the wall. Short- 
ly after, some provisions 
were brought to them with 
the same silence, and it was 
signified to them that they were to remain con- 
cealed through the whole of the coming day. 
Through a crevice in the wall Lee could dis- 
THE OLD STONE BARN, covcr, as tho day came on, that the barn was 
attached to a small house. He was so near the house that he could 
overhear the conversation which was carried on about the door. 
The morning rose clear, and it was evident from the inquiries of 
horsemen, who occasionally galloped up to the door, that the country 
was alarmed. The farmer gave short and surly replies, as if un- 
willing to be taken off from his labor ; but the other inmates were 
eager in their questions, and, from the answers, Lee gathered that 
the means by which he and his companions had escaped were as 
mysterious as ever. 

The next night, when all was quiet, they resumed their murch, 
and explained to Lee, that as he was not with them in their con- 
spiracy and was accidentally associated with them in theK escape, 
they should take the precaution to keep him before them, just be- 
hind the guide. He submitted without opposition, though the ar- 
rangement considerably lessened the chances in favor of his escape. 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 6St 

He observed, from the direction of the stars, that they did not 
move in a direct line toward the Delaware, but they changed 
their course so often that he could not conjecture at what point 
they intended to strike the river. He endeavored, whenever any 
peculiar object appeared, to fix it in his memory as well as 
the darkness would permit, and succeeded better than could 
have been expected, considering the agitated state in which he 
traveled. 

For several nights they went on in this manner, being deliverd 
over to different persons from time to time ; and as Lee could 
gather from their whispering conversation, they were regularly 
employed on occasions like the present, and well rewarded by the 
British for their services. Their employment was full of danger ; 
and though they seemed like desperate men, he could observe 
that they never remitted their precautions. They were concealed 
by day in barns — cellars — caves made for the purpose, and similar 
retreats, and one day was passed in a tomb, the dimensions of 
which had been enlarged, and the inmates, if there had been any, 
banished to make room for the living. The burying grounds 
were a favorite retreat, and on more occasions than one they 
were obliged to resort to superstitious alarms to remove intruders 
upon their path ; their success fully justified the experiment, and, 
unpleasantly situated as he was, in the prospect of soon being a 
ghost himself, he could not avoid laughing at the expedition with 
which old and young fled from the fancied apparitions under 
clouds of night, wishing to meet such enemies, like Ajax, in the 
face of day. 

Though the distance to the Delaware was not great, they had 
How been twelve days on the road, and such was the vigilance 
and suspicion prevailing throughout the country, that they almost 



70 THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 

despaired of effecting their object. The conductor grew impa- 
tient; and Lee's companions, at least one of them, became fero- 
cious. There was, as we have said, something unpleasant to him 
in the glance of this fellow toward him, which became more and 
more fierce as they went on ; but it did not appear whether it 
was owing to circumstances or actual suspicion. It so happened 
that, on the twelfth night, Lee was placed in a barn, while the 
rest of the party sheltered themselves in the cellar of a little stone 
church, where they, could talk and act with more freedom, both 
because the solitude of the place was not often disturbed, even on 
the Sabbath — and because even the proprietors did not know 
that illegal hands had added a cellar to the conveniences of the 
building. 

The party were seated here as the day broke, and the light 
which struggled in through crevices opened for the purpose showed 
a low room about twelve feet square, with a damp floor and large 
patches of white mould upon the walls. Finding, probably, that 
the pavement afforded no accommodation for sleeping, the wor- 
thies were seated each upon a little cask, which seemed like 
those used for gunpowder. Here they were smoking pipes with 
great diligence, and, at intervals not distant, applying a huge 
canteen to their mouths, from which they drank with upturned 
faces, expressive of solemn satisfaction. AVhile they were thus en- 
gaged, the short soldier asked them in a careless way, if they knew 
whom they had in the party. The others started, and took their 
pipes from their mouths to ask him what he meant. 

" I mean," said he, " that we are honored with the company of 
Captain Lee, of the rebel army. The rascal once punished me, 
and I never mistook my man when I had a debt of that kind to pay. 
Now I shall have my revenge." 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 



n 



The others hastened to express their disgust at his ferocity, say- 
ing, that if, as he said, their companion was an American officer, 
all they had to do was to watch him closely. They said that, as 
he had come among them uninvited, he must go with them to 
New York, and take the consequences ; but, meantime, it was their 
interest not to seem to suspect him, otherwise he might give an 
alarm, whereas it was evidently his intention to go with them till 
they were ready to embark for New York. The other persisted 
in saying that he would have his revenge with his own hand, upon 
which the conductor, drawing a pistol, declared to him that if he 
saw the least attempt to injure Captain Lee, or any conduct which 
would lead him to suspect that his disguise was discovered, he 

would that moment shoot him 
through the head. The soldier 
put his hand upon his knife with 
an ominous scowl upon the con- 
(^.uctor, but seeing that he had 
to do with one who was likely 
,^ to be as good as his word, he 
■ I restrained himself, and began to 

arrange some rubbish to serve 

him for a bed. The other soldiers followed his 
example, and their guide withdrew, locking the 
door after him. 

The next night they went on as usual, but 
the manner of their conductor showed there was more danger than 
before ; in fact, he explained to the party, that they were now not 
far from the Delaware, and hoped to reach it before midnight. They 
occasionally heard the report of a musket, which seemed to indicate 
that some movement was going on in the country. Thus warned, 




ni 



THE CONDUCTOR'S 
THREAT. 



12 THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 

they quickened their steps, and it was not long before they saw a 
gleam of broad clear light before them, such as is reflected from calm 
waters even in the darkest nights. They moved up to it with deep 
silence ; there were various emotions in their breasts ; Lee was 
hoping for an opportunity to escape from an enterprise which 
was growing too serious, and the principal objects of which were 
already answered ; the others were anxious lest some accident 
might have happened to the boat on which they depended for 
crossing the stream. 

When they came to the bank there were no traces of a boat on 
the waters. Their conductor stood still for a moment in dismay ; 
but, recollecting himself, he said it was possible it might have been 
secured lower down the stream, and, forgetting everything else, he 
directed the larger soldier to accompany him, and, giving a pistol 
to the other, he whispered, " if the rebel officer attempt to betray 
us, shoot him ; if not, you will not, for your own sake, make any 
noise to show where we are." In the same instant they departed, 
and Lee was left alone with the ruffian. 

He had before suspected the fellow knew him, and now doubts 
were changed to certainty at once. Dark as it was, it seemed as 
if fire flashed from his eye, now that hp felt revenge was in his 
power. Lee was as brave as any officer in the array ; but he was 
unarmed, and though he was strong, his adversary was still more 
powerful. While he stood uncertain what to do, the fellow seemed 
to be enjoying the prospect of revenge, as he looked upon him 
with a steady eye. Though the officer stood in appearance un- 
moved, the sweat rolled in heavy drops from his brow. He soon 
took his resolution, and sprang upon his adversary with the in- 
tention of wresting the pistol from his hand ; but the other was 
upon his guard, and aimed with such precision, that had the pistol 



THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 13 

been charged with a bullet, that moment would have been his 
last. But it seemed that the conductor had trusted to the sight 
of his weapons to render the use of them unnecessary, and had 
therefore loaded them only with powder; as it was, the shock 
threw Lee to the ground ; but fortunately as the fellow dropped 
the pistol, it fell where Lee could reach it, and as his adversary 
stooped, and was drawing his knife from his bosom, Lee was able 
to give him a stunning blow. He immediately threw hiinself upon 

the assassin, and a long and 
bloody struggle began ; they 
were so nearly matched in 
strength and advantage, 
that neither dared unclench 
his hold for the sake of 
grasping the knife ; the blood 
gushed from their mouths, 
and the combat would have 
probably ended in favor of the assassin, when 
steps and voices were heard advancing, and 
they found themselves in the hands of a party 
of countrymen, who were armed for the occa- 
sion, and were scouring the banks of the river. They were forcibly 
torn apart, but so exhausted and breathless, that neither could 
make any explanation, and they submitted quietly to the disposal of 
their captors. 

The party of armed countrymen, though they had succeeded 
in their attempt, and were sulficiently triumphant on the occasion, 
were sorely perplexed to determine how to dispose of their pris- 
oners. After much discussion, one of them proposed to obtain the 
decision of the wisdom of the nearest magistrate. They accord- 




THE BLOODY STRUGGLE. 



74 THE MYSTERY AT LANCASTER. 

ingly proceeded with their prisoners to his mansion, about two 
miles distant, and called on him to rise and attend to business. A 
window was hastily thrown up, and the justice put forth his night- 
capped head, and, with more wrath than became his dignity, ordered 
them off; and, in requital for their calUng him out of bed in the 
cold, generously wished them to the warmest place which then 
occurred to his imagination. However, resistance was vain ; he was 
compelled to rise ; and, as soon as the prisoners were brought before 
Mm, he ordered them to be taken in irons to the city of Philadel- 
phia. Lee improved the opportunity to take the old gentleman 
aside, and told him who he was, and why he was thus disguised ; 
the justice only interrupted him with the occasional inquiry, " Most 
done?" When he had finished, the magistrate told him that his 
story was very well made, and told in a manner very creditable to 
his address, and that he should give it all the weight it seemed to 
require. All Lee's remonstrances were unavailing. 

As soon as they were fairly lodged in prison, Lee prevailed on the 
jailor to carry a note to Gen. Lincoln, informing him of his condi- 
tion. The general received it as he was dressing in the morning, 
and immediately sent one of his aids to the jail. That oflicer could 
not believe his eyes when he saw Captain Lee. His uniform, worn 
out when he assumed it, was now hanging in rags about him, and 
he had not been shaved for a fortnight ; and he wislied, very na- 
turally, to improve his appearance before presenting himself before 
the Secretary of War ; but the orders were peremptory to bring him 
as he was. The general loved a joke full well ; his lQ,ughter was 
hardly exceeded by the report of his own cannon, and long and 
loud did he laugh that day. 

When Captain Lee returned to Lancaster, he immediately at- 
tempted to retrace the ground, and so accurate, under all the 



DAVID CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A BEAR. 15 

unfavorable circumstances, had been his investigation, that he 
brought to justice fifteen persons, who had aided the escape of 
British prisoners. It is scarcely necessary to say to those who 
know the fate of revolutionary officers, that he received, for this 
hazardous and effectual service, no reward whatever. 



DAVID CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A BEAR-AS 
RELATED BY HIMSELF. 

I WAS compelled to move on slowly ; and was frequently falling 
over logs, and into the cracks made by the earthquakes, so that I 
was very much afraid I would break my gun. However, I went 

on about three miles, when 

I came to a good big creek, 

which I waded. It was 

\ery cold, and the creek was 

about knee-deep ; but I felt 

: no great inconvenience from 

it just then, as I was all 

over wet with sweat from 

running, and I felt hot enough. After I got 

over this creek and out of the cane, which was 

very thick on all our creeks, I listened for my 

CROCKETT^AND THE ^^^^^ j ^^^^^ ^^^^ ^^^ ^-^^^^ ^^^^^ ^^ brOUght 

the bear to a stop, as they continued barking in the same place. 
I pushed on as near in the direction of the noise as I could, till I 
found the hill was too steep for me to climb, and so I backed 
and went down the creek some distance, till I came to a hollow, 
and then took up that, till I came to a place where I could climb 




t6 DAVID CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A BE/.R. 

up the hill. It was mighty dark, and it was difficult to Eiee my way, 
or anything else. When I got up the hill, I found I had passed 
the dogs ; and so I turned and went to them. I found, when I got 
there, they had treed the bear in a large forked poplar, and it was 
setting in the fork. 

I could see the lump, but not plain enough to shoot with any 
certainty, as there was no moonlight ; and so I set in to hunting for 
some dry brush to make me a light ; but I could find none, though I 
could find that the ground was torn mightily to pieces by the 
cracks. 

At last I thought I could shoot by guess, and kill him ; so I 
pointed as near the lump as I could, and fired away. But the bear 
didn't come, he only dumb up higher, and got out on a limb, which 
helped me to see him better. I now loaded up again and fired, but 
this time he didn't move at all. I commenced loading for a third 
fire, but the first thing I knowed, the bear was down among my dogs, 
and they were fighting all around me. I had my big butcher in my 
belt, and I had a pair of dressed buckskin breeches on. So I took 
out my knife, and stood determined, if he should get hold of me, to 
defend myself in the best way I could. I stood there for some time, 
and could now and then see a white dog I had, but the rest of them, 
and the bear, which were dark colored, I couldn't see at all, it was 
so miserable dark. They still fought around me, and sometimes 
within three feet of me ; but, at last, the bear got down into one of 
the cracks that the earthquakes had made in the ground, about four 
feet deep, and I could tell the biting end of him by the hollering of 
my dogs. So I took my gun and pushed the muzzle of it about, till 
I thought I had it against the main part of his body, and fired ; but 
it happened to be only the fleshy part of his foreleg. With this he 
jumped out of the crack, and he and the dogs had another hard 



DAVID CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A BEAR. 'Jt 

fight around me, as before. At last, however, they forced him back 
into the crack again, as he was when I had shot. 

I had laid down my gun in the dark, and I now began to hunt for 
it ; and, while hunting, I got hold of a pole, and I concluded I would 
punch him awhile with that. I did so, and when I would punch 
him, the dogs would jump in on him, and he would bite them 
badly, and they would jump out again. I concluded, as he would 
take punching so patiently, it might be that he would lie still 
enough for me to get down in the crack, and feel slowly along till I 
could find the right place to give him a dig with my butcher. So I 
got down, and my dogs got in before him and kept his head towards 
them, till I got along easily up to him ; and placing my hand on his 
rump, felt for his shoulder, just behind which I intended to strike 
him. I made a lunge with my long knife, and fortunately stuck him 
right through the heart, at which he just sank down, and I crawled 
out in a hurry. In a little time my dogs all come out too, and 
seemed satisfied, which was the way they always had of tcllmg me 
that they had finished him. 

I suffered very much that night with cold, as my leather breeches, 
and every thing else I had on, was wet and frozen. But I managed 
to get my bear out of this crack after several hard trials, and so I 
butchered him and laid down to try to sleep. But my fire was very 
bad, and I couldn't find anything that would burn well to make it 
any better ; and so I concluded I should freeze, if I didn't warm 
myself in some way by exercise. So I got up and hollered awhile, 
and then I would just jump up and down with all my might, and 
throw myself into all sorts of motions. But all this wouldn't do ; 
for my blood was now getting cold, and the chills coming all over 
me. I was so tired, too, that I could hardly walk ; but I thought I 
would do the best I could to save my life, and then, if I died, no- 



78 



THE ROMANCE OF WAR. 



body would be to blame. So I went to a tree about two feet 
through, and not a limb on it for thirty feet, and I would climb up 
to the limbs, and then lock my arms together around it, and slide 
down to the bottom again. This would make the insides of my legs 
and arms feel mighty warm and good. I continued this till daylight 
in the morning, and how often I dumb up my tree and slid down I 
don't know, but I reckon at least a hundred times. 



THE BOMAITCE OF -WAR.-SERGEANT JASPER AND 
SALLY ST. CLAIR. 

Sometime just before, or about the beginning of the war. Sergeant 
Jasper, of Marion's Brigade, had the good fortune to save the life 
of a young, beautiful, and dark-eyed creole girl, called Sally St. 
Clair. Her susceptible nature was overcome with gratitude to her 

preserver, and this soon ripened 
into a passion of love, of the most 
deep and fervent kind. She la- 
vished upon him the whole wealth 
of her affections, and 
the whole depths of a 
'J yCC^== passion nurtured by a 

When 
he was called upon to 
join the ranks of his 
country's defenders, the 
prospect of their separation almost maddened her. Their parting 
came, but scarcely was she left alone, than her romantic nature 
prompted the means of a reunion. Once resolved, no considera- 




IN THE MIDST OF THE BATTLE, WITH HER LOVER 
BY HER SIDE, THE HEROIC MAIDEN DIES. 



THE ROMANCE OP WAR. td 

tion of danger could dampen her spirit, and no thought of conse- 
quences could move her purpose. She severed her long and jetty 
ringlets, and provided herself with male attire. In these she robed 
herself, and set forth to follow the fortunes of her lover. 

A smooth faced, beautiful, and delicate stripling appeared among 
the hardy, rough, and giant frames, who composed the corps to 
which Jasper belonged. The contrast between the stripling and 
these men, in their uncouth garbs, their massive faces, embrowned 
and discolored by sun and rain, was indeed striking. But none 
were more eager for the battle, or so indifferent to fatigue, as the 
fair faced boy. It was found that his energy of character, resolu- 
tion and courage, amply supplied his lack of physique. None ever 
suspected him to be a woman. Not even Jasper himself, although 
she was often by his side, penetrated her disguise. 

The romance of her situation increased the fervor of her passion. 
It was her delight to reflect that, unknown to him, she was by his 
side, watching over him in the hour of danger. She fed her passion 
by gazing upon him in the hour of slumber, hovering near him, 
when stealing through the swamp and thicket, and being always 
ready to avert danger from his head. 

But gradually there stole a melancholy presentiment over the 
poor girl's mind. She had been tortured with hopes deferred ; 
the war was prolonged, and the prospect of being restored to him 
grew more and more uncertain. But now she felt that her dream 
of happiness could never be realized. She became convinced that 
death was about to snatch her away from his side, but she prayed 
that she might die, and he never know to what length the violence 
of her passion had led her. 

It was an eve before a battle. The camp had sunk into repose. 
The watchfires were burning low, and only the slow tread of senti- 



80 THE ROMANCE OF WAR. 

nels fell upon the profound silence of the night air, as they moved 
through the dark shadows of the forest. Stretched upon the 
ground, with no other couch than a blanket, reposed the warlike 
form of Jasper. Climbing vines trailed themselves into a canopy 
above his head, through which the stars shone down softly. The 
faint flicker from the expiring embers of a fire fell athwart his coun- 
tenance, and tinged the cheek of one who bent above his couch. It 
was the smooth faced stripling. She bent low down as if to listen 
to his dreams, or to breathe into his soul pleasant visions of love 
and happiness. But tears trace themselves down the fair one's 
cheek, and fall silently but rapidly upon the brow of her lover. A 
mysterious voice has told her that the hour of parting has come ; 
that to-morrow her destiny is consummated. There is one last, 
long, lingering look, and then the unhappy maid is seen to tear her- 
self away from the spot, to weep out her sorrows in privacy. 

Fierce and terrible is the conflict that on the morrow rages on 
that spot. Foremost in the battle is the intrepid Jasper, and ever 
by his side fights the stripling warrior. Often during the heat and 
the smoke, gleams suddenly upon the ej^es of Jasper, the melancholy 
face of the maiden. In the thickest of the fight, surrounded by 
enemies, the lovers fight side by side. Suddenly a lance is leveled 
at the breast of Jasper ; but swifter than the lance is Sally St. Clair. 
There is a wild cry, and at the feet of Jasper sinks the maiden, with 
the life blood gushing from the white bosom, which had been thrown, 
as a shield, before his breast. He hears not now the din, nor the 
danger of the conflict ; but down by the side of the dying boy he 
kneels. Then for the first time docs he learn that the stripling is 
his love ; that often by the camp fire, and in the swamp, she had 
been by his side ; that the dim visions, in his slumber, of an angel 
face hoverino: above him, had indeed been true. In the midst of the 



THE DESPERADOES' MISTAKE. 81 

battle, with her lover by her side, aud the barb still in her bosom, 
the heroic maiden dies ! 

Her name, her sex, and her noble devotion, soon became known 
through the corps. There was a tearful group gathered around her 
grave : there was not one of those hardy warriors, who did not 
bedew her grave with tears. They buried her near the river Santee, 
*'in a green shady nook that looked as if it had been stolen out of 
Paradise." 



THE DESPEKADOES' MISTAKE. 
During the winter of 1836-7, 1 made a business tour of the South- 
ern States. A great portion of the time was spent in the State of 
Mississippi. It was about this time that the astounding develop- 
ments of Yirgil A. Stewart had thrown all the country into an 
ebullition of excitement. An extensive organization of horse thieves, 
negro thieves, and highwaymen, under the name of the " Murrel 
Gang," had been formed, and had co-operators and a rendezvous 
in every county and town of the Southwest. Its ramifications ex- 
tended even to the new states and territories bordering on the 
shores of the western lakes. It was one of the most stupendous 
and cunningly contrived schemes of villany ever concocted, and the 
originator and master spirit of this devilish organization evinced a 
tact and talent, which, if directed in an honorable channel, might 
have elevated him to an enviable distinction. The deep secrecy of 
his measures, and his characteristic shrewdness, together with the 
extraordinary control he exercised over his followers, who were 
found in all ranks of society— wealthy planters, and professional 
men of apparent respectability, Mississippi boatmen and settlers 
of the backwoods, as well as the gamblers and loafers of the south- 
6 



THE desperadoes' MISTAKE. 



ern towns, would have done honor to a general of the order of 
Loyola. 
Stewart's revelations of the plans and intentions of the gang im- 
plicated individuals 
whose characters 
and standing had 
before placed them 
above suspicion. 
The names of many, 
fij occupying promi- 
nent political and 
professional posi- 
tions in their re- 
spective communi- 
ties, were found re- 
corded in the list 
of members of this 
infernal brother- 
hood, and so strong 
were the proofs of 
their complicity, 
that their honest 
neighbors were forced to admit them. The consequence was, that 
people became suspicious of each other ; neighbor was distrustful of 
neighbor, and mutual confidence was entirely destroyed. 

Such was the spirit of vengeance that Stewart had aroused 
against himself, that the Governor of Mississippi found it necessary 
to furnish him with a strong and trusty body guard, to protect him 
from assassination. Members of the gang, who had sworn to ac- 
complish his death were continually on the watch to waylay him ; 




A RENDEZVOCS OF THE MURREL GANG. 



THE DESPERADOES' MISTAKE. §^ 

and whether on a journey, or at home in the capital of the state, 
suspicious strangers were clogging his steps, day and night. But 
with his watchful attendants ever about him, the fearless informer 
eluded the death intended for him. But at length he began to 
weary of this continued vigilance, and by degrees diminished the 
number of his guards, till after a few months he even ventured 
almost alone on journeys through the state, on his legitimate 
business. He, however, always took the precaution to go heavily 
armed, and prepared for attack. 

My business made it necessary to travel from Yicksburg to 
Columbus, in the northern part of the state, and my route lay along 
the " old Eobinson Road," through the counties of Hinds, Madison, 
Leake, Winston and Lowndes. I had started out on horseback, 
and alone. But at a stopping place in Madison County, I chanced 
to make the acquaintance of a couple of traders returning to East 
Tennessee, after a successful trip among the cotton planters of the 
Red River country. These men, who were well acquainted with the 
country through which I was about to journey, and who, withal, 
were companionable sort of fellows, on hearing of my northern des- 
tination, proposed that we should travel together. As a portion of 
the road led through the Choctaw and Chickasaw nations, and was 
but sparsely settled, I gladly availed myself of their friendly pro- 
posal, and after an early breakfast, we were on the road together. 

My companions, as well as myself, were well armed, as was the 
custom of southern travelers in those days. At each stopping place 
or ferry, we were particular to examine our weapons, to see that 
they were always in readiness for use. Robberies had been of fre- 
quent occurrence in the swamps through which we had to pass. 
After crossing the ferry of the Yukanukany, we stopped at the 
house of an old half-breed Choctaw, named La Flore, but more 



84 



THE desperadoes' MISTAKE. 



familiarly known among travelers as "Uncle Ben." Here our 
horses were fed, and we ordered dinner. 

After dinner the old man informed us that Yirgil A. Stewart, 
with two companions, had spent the previous night with him. They 
were also traveling up the Eobinson Eoad, bound to Huntsville, 
Ala., " and," added Uncle Ben, speaking a language half English 
half Choctaw, addressing himself to me, " I reckon, maybe so, you 
are Stewart's brudder ?" 

" No," I replied ; " I have never seen the man." 
" Well, den, stranger, you look same as Stewart. I reckon you 
better keep yer eye skinned." 
" Why so. Uncle Ben ?" I asked. 

"'Cause Murrel men pass by here dis morning on a hunt for 
Stewart, I reckon. I tell um he gone on — dey go on, too — no stop 
for dinner, nor nothin' — cheat me out of one dollar maJioba. Your 
blue coat and brass buttons same as him. He leetle man same like 
you, and he ride nice black mare, same like you do. I tell you, 

stranger, keep your eye skinned, 
and let them Murrel men keep a 
long trail 'tween you and dem. 
Dey'll shoot you same as Stewart, 
if dey see you 'fore dey do 
him." 

Laughing heartily at 
the half-breed's earnest 
manner, but thanking him 
for his friendly precau- 
tions, we settled our bills, and remounting our horses, were once 
more riding leisurely through the over-arching forest, and occasion- 
ally discharging our pistols at the herds of deer which frequently 
crossed our path. 




THE PRUDENT WARNING OP UNCLE BEN 



THE desperadoes' MISTAKE. 8§ 

On reaching the ferry of the Little Black, in Leake county, we 
again heard of Stewart and his friends, who were some hours in 
advance of us, still followed by the two men our half-breed landlord 
had described to us. They were hard looking customers, the old 
ferryman said, and inquired particularly about the travelers pre- 
ceding them, — how many they were, and how long before they had 
passed the river. The fellow, a very intelligent negro, was satisfied, 
he said, that they were Murrel men in pursuit of the informer; for, 
when he had answered their hurried and eager questions, they leaped 
their horses from his flat, and spurred off without paying their fer- 
riage fees. 

" Dey's bad, Murrel men, you may depend on it, marsters," ex-, 
claimed Cufifee, as I handed him the money for our passage. "T'ank 
you, sir ;" and as he put the coin into his pocket he looked up to 
repeat his thanks. But, the moment he caught my eye bent upon 
him, the old negro went off into a spasmodic fit of genuine African 
guffaw; — **2/ar — he — haw! yar — he — haw! AVhy, marster, you's 
cute, you is ; — yar — he — haio ! dat's neat done ; but how in de world 
did you git 'cross de riber again, and I here all de time, and not 
know it ?" 

The negro's manners and words were an enigma to me, and I 
good-naturedly demanded an explanation. 

" "Well, den, you's marster Stewart, what I ferried 'cross de stream 
here dis morning ? — Yes, I knows yer is." 

"You never was more mistaken in your life. Sambo," I replied. 

"No! Well, den, de Lord forgive me, marster, but I was just 
now ready to swar you was de same gen'l'mau. I reckon your near 
kin to him, den, for you and him are as much alike as two persim- 
mons." 

I not only denied any relationship to Mr. Stewart, but reiterated 



86 THE desperadoes' mistake. 

■what I had asserted to Uncle Ben, that I had never even seen the 
man. 

" Well, den, marster, take my advice, please," and the old ferry- 
man placed his hand respectfully on my knee, and looked earnestly 
in my eyes. "Don't let them bad-looking fellows, following the 
genewine Stewart, set their ugly eyes on you 'fore dey gits sight of 
him, for dey mean him harm, and might shoot yoa for him by mis- 
take. You look just like him and so does your nag," and, pointing 
up the bank of the river, the old negro begged me to take the trail 
running northward through the swamp, which he informed us, would 
lead to another well-travelled road, that by a much shorter route 
would again strike the Robinson Road in Winston county. This, 
he assured us, v/ould, with ordinary travel, bring us to the crossing 
of the Noxubee several hours ahead of Stewart and his pursuers ; 
and thus avoid any possibility of a meeting with them, or being seen 
by the suspicious-looking travelers. 

Upon consultation we concluded that the ferryman was right, and 
the best way to avoid all trouble and danger would be to follow his 
advice, and strike off by way of the road he had pointed out. So, 
getting a more particular description of our new route, and handing 
the man a new bright dollar for his interest in our safety, we took 
the path indicated. 

After clearing the swamp we found our trail leading through oak 
openings, and over a gently undulating country covered with a tall 
crop of grass, the growth of the previous season. These pastures 
were the resort of thousands of deer, who leaped away from before 
our horses at every glade and hillside we approached. We were 
frequently tempted to try our pistols on them, but being desirous 
of gaining the advance, we hastened on. Towards nightfall we 
reached the traveled wagon-track the ferryman had directed us to, 



THE desperadoes' MISTAKE. 87 

and soon after, falling in with a settler's cabin, were permitted to 
spend the night there. Before daylight on the following morning 
we were again on the road, and by noon were scrambling through 
the swampy bottom of the Noxubee. 

At the toll-gate beyond the swamp, we learned that Stewart (who 
was well known on all the traveled routes throughout the state) 
had but two hours preceded us. His party was the last that passed 
the gate going north. The Murrel men were therefore yet in the 
rear, and we were now consequently between the two parties of 
horsemen. Spurring our horses, therefore, we pushed on, being 
determined, if possible, to overtake those ahead, who were evidently 
traveling rapidly, and either join them or leave them in our rear, 
between us and the pursuing ruffians. 

Stewart's party, doubtless aware that their enemies might be on 
their trail, had ridden late and early, and for two days had thus 
eluded them. Their horses were comparatively fresh, while those of 
their pursuers were travel-worn. At the rate we now traveled we 
would, without doubt, have overtaken Stewart's party by the time 
they would have stopped for their mid-day feed. But unfortunately 
the horse of one of my companions falling through a rotten logway 
so seriously injured himself that we were obliged to halt for some 
time ; and when we again set forward were unable to travel faster 
than a walk, on his account. 

We had cleared the Noxubee swamp, and had entered a densely 
wooded forest. On one side of our road a range of broken hills ran 
parallel to the path, and on the other a growth of thickets and cane- 
brakes, upon the edge of a deep valley, broke off the prospect later- 
ally. But along our path opened occasionally vistas, for many rods, 
where we could reconnoitre the road ahead and in our rear. We 
were riding along engaged in conversation, and regardless of the 



88 THE desperadoes' mistake. 

vicinity of strangers, when suddenly our attention was called to the 
sound of rapidly approaching horsemen. On checking our animals, 
and looking behind us, we perceived a party of four men ; they were 
well mounted, and heavily armed. Each man had slung to the 
pommel of his saddle a short rifle, while pistols and bowie-knives 
stuck out all over their persons. If these were the men in pursuit 
of Stewart and his comrades, they had gained an important addition 
to their party on the road, since passing the ferry of the Little 
Black. 

We intended to let these suspicious-looking strangers pass us 
peacefully if they would ; for to attempt to keep ahead of them, with 
our crippled horses, was altogether out of the question. They ap- 
peared to have discovered us at the same moment that we did them ; 
and drawing rein, while we still kept on, as if not aware of their 
approach, they fell back out of sight. If they really were Murrel 
men, their only object now, without doubt, was the assassination of 
the bold informer, and not the molestation of peaceful travelers. 
The gang had ceased their operations as highwaymen since Stewart 
had turned state's evidence, and v^^ere now endeavoring to disarm 
the suspicions of the public, by suspending then* acts of robbery. 
The death of their treacherous associate was what they were now 
most anxious to accomplish. 

Scarcely had we ridden a mile after losing sight of the strangers, 
when we were startled by the sharp report of a rifle, from the ridge 
on our right. Simultaneous with the report, a bullet whistled in 
alarming proximity to my face. We had hardly time to turn in our 
saddles to the direction from whence came the leaden missile, when 
another shot was fired from the cover of the cane-brake on our left. 
This, also, was evidently aimed at me, but, missing its mark, took 
effect in the root of my mare's mane. Smarting with the wound, 



THE desperadoes' MISTAKE. 



89 



and frightened by the firing, she attempted to dash away with me 
down the road ; but at that instant another shot, not ten yards from 
my left, in the cane-brake, struck my poor animal just above the 
eye. With a wild leap she threw herself forward, and rearing upon 
her hind feet, fell over backwards upon me. 
I found myself crushed to the ground be- 
neath her weight, 
and so entangled 
with the stirrup, 
- that I was unable 
/- to extricate myself 
J from the dangerous 
position. 

In the meantime 
my two traveling 




AT THE MERCY OF THE DESPERADOES. 



companions had 
leaped from their saddles, and hastily leading their horses from the 
road, had thrown themselves behind the shelter of a huge cypress, 
where they were watching the progress of the affair. 

The ruffians, it appears, after discovering us ahead of them, had 
left the path, and dashing through the woods, had gained the 
advance, where, on both sides of the road, and screened by the 
thickets, they had awaited our approach. 

I had no sooner fallen beneath my horse than I heard an exultant 
yell on the right of the road, and two men ran towards me with up- 
lifted knives and pistols, to make a finish of me. But disabled as I 
was, I could use one of my pistols ; the other had fallen beyond my 
reach when I was thrown to the ground. Throwing myself upon 
my back as they approached, I leveled my pistol— a single-barreled, 
old-fashioned affair, for it was before the clays of revolvers— and 



90 THE desperadoes' MISTAKE. 

being ordinarily a good shot, I even under the present circumstanees 
had confidence in my aim, and when the villains had come within 
three paces, I fired upon the foremost. The bullet tore an ugly 
gash through the ruffian's cheek, and, furious with the wound, he 
leaped upon me. 

At the same moment the other two ruffians had jumped into the 
road and opened a fire upon the traders, who, partially protected by 
the cypress, warmly returned shot for shot. I, however, had no 
time to observe what was going on beyond my own immediate 
vicinity. I was completely at the mercy of my assailants, and the 
wounded fellow had leveled an ugly-looking pistol at my head ; I felt 
the cold iron pressed against my ear, and a chill of horror thrilled 
through my frame. With an unexpressed prayer to Heaven, and a 
rapid farewell thought of home and home friends, I closed my eyes, 
and braced my muscles for the murderoms shot. I felt the cold 
metal pressed closer and closer to my head, and was conscious of 
the pressure of the ruffian's finger upon the trigger ; the next instant 
a stunning report, as of the bursting of a thunderbolt upon my head, 
rang in my ears. My face and hair seemed on fire, and I felt the 
crushing weight of some heavy body thrown upon my breast. Yet, 
strangely enough, with all this I felt a consciousness that yet I 
remained uninjured. As the weight was thrown upon my breast, 
I heard a fierce oath, accompanied with an exclamation of surprise 
and the words — 

" Hold ! hold ! Bill Parker ; we're mistaken in our man ! I tell 
you 'taint the chap we're after," and drawing the man from my 
breast, a tall, dark-complexioned, fierce-looking fellow, returning 
his weapons to his belt, stood over me, and gazed inquiringly intc 
my face. "I tell you. Bill," he continued, "we're on the wrong 
scent again ; this is not the man we're after ! Set him up, will you, 



THE desperadoes' MISTAKE. 



91 



And heaving at the body of my poor mare, the fellow released me 
from my confinement, with no other injury than a slight bruise of my 
leg. 

With a sullen look and a growl of disappointment, the wounded 
ruffian stood aside, and tearing his cravat from his neck, proceeded 
to bandage his bloody face ; while his tall companion assisted me to 
my feet, and calling to the other two men, still exchanging shots 
with the traders, ordered them to desist. Then turning to me, — 

" You've had a narrow escape, stranger," said he, with an oath, 
"We have followed you over a hundred miles, deceived by your 
resemblance to that arrant traitor, Yirgil A. Stewart. Now, sir, 
that you have fortunately lost that fine black animal of yours, take 
my advice, and at the next stopping place, exchange that blue cloth 
coat for a different style of garment ; and while you are about it, it 
might be all the better, perhaps, to shave off those full whiskers of 
yours. I've known Stewart for years ; but until I was close upon 

you, I would have sworn that you 
were the man — and while you re- 
semble him, your life is not worth 
that dead nag, at least in the 
southern country. Good-morn- 
ing, sir," and remount- 
ing their horses, within 
the thickets, the four 
fellows soon disappear- 
ed, on the back track 
towards the Noxubee. 
Shortly after this 
singular adventure, I* heard of the arrest of the leader of the Murrel 
gang ; and being in Nashville, Tennessee, in the following spring, I 




JOHN A. MURREL IN THE PRISON SMITHY AT NASHVILLE. 



92 AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 

was led by curiosity to visit the state prison there. Almost the 
first individual I encountered in the prison smithy, was the tall, 
dark-eyed ruffian whose interference had saved my life near the 
Noxubee swamp. The man also recognized me, with a stealthy nod 
of his head. 

" Who is that prisoner ?" I asked of the courteous and obliging 
turnkey that accompanied me. 

" Him, sir, wielding the sledge hammer ?" 

"The same," I replied. 

''That is the notorious John A. Murrel, till recently the terror of 
the south-western country." 



AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 

"Well, youngsters," said Uncle Job, a veteran trapper, to a 
party of young fellows bound on an amateur trapping excursion to 
the Rocky Mountains, " when you have toted traps and peltries, and 
fit Injuns as long as I have, you'll certainly have considerable more 
experience than you now have. Ha I ha ! yer think, maybe, it's a 
mighty nice time ye'll have on't out on the trapping grounds, and I 
aint going to say as how yer won't ; but take my word for it, ye'll 
wish yourselves back in the settlements many a time afore ye'll get 
there ; for what with fighting and hiding from Injuns and them pesky 
grizzlies, and living like them spindle-shanked Diggers, on the 
other side of the mountains, sometimes for weeks together, and 
nothing but pine cones and such trash as luck happens to throw in 
yer way, to keep soul and body together, yer time '11 be any thing 
but specially agreeable, till yer gets used to it, and then ye'll find it 
barely endurable. It's a mighty hard life, anyhow, boys !" 



AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 93 

" Why, then, Uncle Job, do you go back again to the plains ?" 
they asked. 

"Well there, boys, yer have me, anyhow," answered the old man; 




"yy/m^ ^^ 



"and now," continued the old trapper, as he lit his stone pipe, "as 
I'm in the humok on't, I'll tkll teb about a fight," etc. 

" and to be right down honest with yer — / likes it ! It's a fact, as 
sure as dry prairie grass '11 burn. I would not live a whole month 
in Saint Lewy for all the money there, if I could not be allowed to 
spend the balance of the time out in the mountain country. I'm 
used to it, youngsters, and city air is rank pison to me ; besides, I'd 
spoil for the want of a fight with some of the red varmints of Black- 
feet, Pawnees, and Poncas, — for that's the best part of life on the 
plain, boys. And now," continued the old trapper, as he lit his 
stone pipe, " as I'm in the humor on't, I'll tell yer about a fight — 
and a long battle it was, too — I had with a party of them cowardly 
Blackfeet over on the Sweet-Water. It was something over twelve 
years ago, and one fall, when I was trapping on the head waters 
of the Columbia. 



94 AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 

*' We had at the post about a dozen greenhorns, just like your- 
selves, only a few months from the settlements, who hadn't yet got 
toughened to the kind of- life we had to lead; and some of 'em was 
about dying with the ager, and not a dose of medicine, or even a 
blessed drop of whiskey, to save them with. So, as I knew every 
part of the country from the Pacific to Saint Lewy, I was ordered, 
by the head trader of the post, to go to Fort Laramie, and bring 
back a supply of calomel, Queen Anne, and sich truck, for our sick 
men. 

" The distance was about six hundred miles over the mountains. 
We had come the spring before to the western side of the range, 
by way of the Sweet-Water valley pass, and I concluded to take 
that route again toward Laramie. 

" Well, arter I had got over the main ridge, I kept along the south 
side of the Wind river mountains, and stopped one day on the Green 
river to make me a new pair of moccasins ; for the rough traveling 
of the hills had left me barefooted. While I was stitchirag away at 
my moccasins, I remembered a cache (that is, a lot of furs or pro- 
visions hidden or stowed away until it should be convenient to re- 
move them) a party of us had made the spring before, about a day's 
travel out of my regular route. It was on the south branch of the 
Sweet-Water. We had started from the head of the Platte, on our 
way to the Columbia, with a small drove of pack mules, loaded with 
provisions for the new post, and when on the South' Branch one of 
the creturs give out, and we had to cache his cargo. It was a 
package of jerked venison and a sack of flour, with a small bag of 
rice for the sick, when we had 'em, and a five gallon keg of whiskey 
• — genuine Monongahela — none of yer common corn juice. It is a 
common practice with us trappers to cache our provisions where we 
know they will be safe for some future journey that way. 



AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE 95 

"Well, as I worked away at my moccasins, I all at once got to 
be mighty thirsty, and the thoughts of the whiskey popped right 
into my head. Says I to myself, says I, ' Job, wouldn't you like to 
have one good suck at that 'ere little red keg, specially when nobody 
at the post would be any wiser or poorer for it ?' And I reckoned I 
would. So I finished the buckskin, and the next morning started 
bright and early for the cache. Now, as I said, it was one day's 
journey from my route, and it would take another day to put me on 
the right course again ; that, yer know, would use up two days that 
I certainly ought to give to my sick comrades at the post. But I 
argued in this way : ' Now I'm pesky dry for a drink of whiskey. 
I'm actilly feeling bad for the want of it, and if I gratify my natural 
loQging I'll certainly feel better arter it, and I can then tread so 
much faster that I shall more 'n make up for the lost time.' And 
that's the way I reconciled it to my conscience. 

" Well, I reached the South Branch by the middle of the after- 
noon, and going down the stream a little ways from where I struck 
it, I found the cave where we had cached our provisions. It was a 
pretty large one — I should reckon about twice the length of this 
boat's cabin, but 'twan't more'n half as high. I crawled into the 
narrow mouth of it, and drew my rifle in arter me ; and as soon as 
my eyes got kinder used to the dim light, right up there in the 
corner I found every thing all right. The jolly little red keg seemed 
actilly to laugh all over at the sight of an old friend. And well 
it might, for it had been shut up there in the dark for more 'n six 
months, with nothing but the flour, and rice, and dried meat, to 
keep it company. 

" I pulled out my sharp-pointed bowie and tapped the head of it in 
no time. But just as I raised the little fellow to get a taste of him, 
1 heard a tramping of horses' feet outside, and the howling of fifteen 



AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 




or twenty infernal Blackfeet. I had to drop tlie keg before a drop 
of the blessed stuff had wet my thirsty lips ; and well it was T did, 

for at that moment 
the entrance to the 
place was darkened by 
a rascally Injun that 
had been fool enough 
to follow me. I raised 
my rifle, and let him 
have it through his 
black head. His com- 
rades dragged him out 
by the feet, and gave 

"l HAD TO DROP THE KEG BEFORE A DROP OF THE BLESSED 

STUFF HAD WET Mr THIRSTY Liprf." auother savagc yell 

when they found he'd been wiped out. While they were tugging 
av/ay at his stinking carcass, I busied myself in reloading my rifle, 
to be ready for the next visitor. But though the darned cowards 
kept up a terrible hillabiloo, they didn't attempt to crawl into the 
cave any more. 

"Thinks I, 'Now's your time. Job ;' and raising little red to the 
top of the cavern, I took a good, long, glorious drink ! I tell yer, 
boys, it's a fact that I have had many a good drink of the strong water 
in my day, but never in my life did I taste any thing that was quite 
equal to that old Monongahela. It braced me right up, and I'd 
hardly had it down my throat, than I felt that I was a host in my- 
self, and enough, single-handed as I was, for all the Blackfeet west 
of the Mississippi. 

" Arter a few minutes three or four rifles were poked cautiously 
into the hole, and fired at random into tbe cave toward me. But, 
standing one side, I let them peg away. They were only using up 



AN OLD TRAPPEE IN A TIGHT PLACE. 91 

their ammunition, aud the sooner they got rid ot that the better 

for me, , • u 4. 

..Next they sent a shower of arrows througk the openmg, but 
„ith no better effect than with their bullets. In the mean time I had 
found alittle hole through the rocks just large enough for the barrel 
of my gun, and watching a good chance, when the varmints were 
thick about the mouth. I took good aim and popped away at them, 
sending half an ounce of lead through the bodies of no less than 
three .of them at once. At th>s the Injuns fell back, yelling ven- 
seance and I took another refreshing pull at little red. ' For,' says 
1 .Job, now it's your treat, and here's to as good luck the next 
,hoti' But they didn't try the shooting game any more, as they 
found that was a game I could play at as well as themselves, and I 
held all the trump cards. They kept losing, while I continued to 

hold my own. 

.. Arter they had been quiet for a considerable time, I poked my 
head out of the cave and peeped down the stream, where I could 
see the cowardly wolves gathering armsful of dry sticks and grass, 
which I at once knew they intended to bring up to the cavern and 
smoke me out. I hadn't thought of this before, and thinks I, the 
black rascals have got me now, sure. I can fight Injuns, so long as 
my ammunition holds out; but when it comes to fire and smoke, I 
aint a match nohow for them, shut up in the limestone rocks. 

..presently the savages came back agin to the mouth of the cave 
in such a direction that I couldn't bring old kill-deer to bear upon 
them; and piling up their combustibles, set fire to it. The wmd 
happened that evening to set directly mto the place, and in a few 
minutes the nasty smudge began to suffocate me. I had to crawl 
farther and farther into the place as the smoke followed me ; and I 
conld hear the Injuns piling on the grass and wood all the time. 



98 AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 

They found they could get me out by no other means, and were now 
trying to choke me to death with the horrid smoke. But, fortunately, 
as I ran away from it, I saw a little streak of daylight ahead of me, 

It was a crevice in the rock, 
through which the rays of 
the setting sun was stream- 
ing, as much as to say, ' Be 
of good heart, Job : they 
can't smoke you out so long 
as you choose to breathe 
through this nice little air- 
hole.' 

" I reached the place and 

laid down, breathing the pure 

/ air, and laughmg at the red 

r^r^.^^a ^A^„^.,TXTr, fools, wfa wcrc yclllng and 

" I COULD SEE THE COWARDLY WOLVES GATHERINO ' "^ O 

ARMSFUL OF DRY STICKS AND GRASS TO SMOKE ME , . /. • , .-, . 

OUT." dancmg for joy at the cute 

trick they thought they were playing me. 

" It so happened that through the same crevice that admitted the 
light and air, I discovered a nice little pool of fresh water had formed 
on the floor of the cavern. Now, thought I, if I only had the little 
red fellow yonder, and the provisions, I could do first rate. So 
holding my breath, I crawled back agin into the smoke, and catch- 
ing the keg in one hand and the package of jerked meat in the other, 
I went back to my breathing-hole, and made a comfortable supper, 
while the black fiends outside were wasting their breath and fuel 
for nothing. 

" Arter I had satisfied my appetite, and taken another pull at the 
strong water, I laid down for a nap, for T knew the Injuns wouldn't 
trouble me while they kept up their smoke. 




AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 99 

" Well, I had a pretty good night's rest, considering I had to 
keep one eye open. And in the moruing, after the smoke had 
settled, I sat quietly at the side of the opening, expecting Mr. Injun 
to creep through arter my scalp. They had no doubt I had given 
up the ghost, and thought they were good for my carcass. But they 
reckoned without the host, for no sooner did a Blackfoot show his 
head than pop ! a pill from kill-deer settled the job for him. 

" Them Injuns, I reckon, thought they had holed the devil him- 
self, for they war so surprised when they heard the bark of the old 
rifle, and found another of the"m wiped out, that they even forgot to 
yell. They found that smoke couldn't kill the old man ; and then 
t^- ^y tried another plan. Their game now was to starve me out. And 
here again I had the trump cards in my own hands. The fact was, 
they hadn't the least idea that the cave had been used as a cacJie ; 
and wJien they saw me take to it, they thought that I had discovered 
them, and was hiding away from them there. They didn't count on 
the good things I had there, all to myself. 

" I could understand enough of their gibberish to learn that they 
had determined to stand guard over me till I should be forced to 
yield to starvation, at least. But I had, you know, about two 
months' provision with me, and so long as that held out, and little 
red give down, I was all right. So I made up my mind to pass the 
time as agreeably as possible. 

" I could hear that parties of Injuns rode away from the place 
every morning, and others come agin to take their place, standing 
guard over me by turns. At length, after four day.% when they 
supposed I was about starved to such a degree as to be no longer 
dangerous to approach, a redskin poked his head into the opening, 
and began to crawl cautiously into the cave. I was watching for 
him, and, clutching him by the windpipe, so that he could make no 



100 AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 

noise, I drew my bowie across liis throat, and dragged him into the 
darkness. Presently another followed, and him I served in precisely 
the same way. Arter some time another Injun put his head down 
to the hole and called to his comrades. At this moment I leveled 
ray rifle and let him have it. So that that morning I had wiped out 
three more of the rascals. 

"They didn't trouble me any more for some days — I think it 
must have been nigh a week, when making sure I had yielded to the 
fate they had decreed me, another attempt was made to enter the 
cavern. I kept at a distance till tw^o of them had come in, when I 
sprang upon them, and with my rifle and knife made a finish of thera 
too. 

" Now indeed it was that the Injuns were really sure that they 
had none but the very Evil One to deal with ; and filling the air with 
their yells of disappointed vengeance, they mounted their mustangs, 
and I could hear 
them riding away 
down the banks of 
the river. 

" Arter a while, 
when I thought the 
coast was clear of 
the red fools, I ven- ~~<f^^::^^ 

tured to the open air, and mounting 
upon the top of the river bank, I 
could see them spurring away over «< arter a while, wrkn i rnorcHT 

THE COAST WAS CLEAR OF THE RED 

the prairie as if the Evil Spirit was fools, i ventured to the open air." 
behind them. I had been pent up in that dark hole for more than 
three weeks, as near as I could guess ; and the strong light of the 
sun almost blinded me at first; but arter a little while I got used 




AN OLD TRAPPER IN A TIGHT PLACE. 101 

to it ; and I tell you what, boys, if this green earth and the blue 
skies ever looked beautiful to my eyes, they did on that blessed 
morning when I crept outen that living grave, for yer must remem- 
ber it was half full of the stinking carcasses of them Blackfeet I had 
killed." 

"But, Uncle Job," asked one of the young men, "how did your 
sick men at the post get along without the medicine." 

"Poorly," was the reply. "Two of them had died. But they 
waited ten days for me to come back, and finding I didn't, they sent 
another man to Fort Laramie for the medicine, and the others were 
saved. 

" I reached the post agin arter an absence of about a month ; and 
as I didn't like to acknowledge I had turned out of my way for the 
sake of the whiskey, while my comrades were suffering for the want 
of what I had been sent for, I said nothing about it more than that I 
had been a prisoner among the Injuns, and managed to make my 
escape arter a hard fight. 

" Some months arterwards, when a party of us were trapping out 
on the Medicine Bow, we concluded to make a visit to our cache. 
The place was just as I had left it, only the bodies of the Blackfeet 
I had wiped out had been removed. The sack of flour and bag of 
rice were just as the spring party had cached them ; but to the sur- 
prise of all of us, and to none more than myself, the whiskey keg 
was empty and the dried venison all gone. 

"The fact was, boys," concluded Uncle Job, "although I had 
pretty considerable of a time of it with them cussed Blackfeet, upon 
the whole I felt too much ashamed of the affair to let on a single 
word about it." 



102 



THE WONDERFUL ESCAPE. 



THE WONDERFUL ESCAPE. 

In the autumn of 1779, a number of keel boats were ascending the 
Ohio under the command of Major Eodgers, and had advanced as 




BENHAM WAS SHOT THROUGH BOTH LEGS. THE MAN WHO NOW APPEARED, 
CAPED FROM THE SAME BATTLE WITH BOTH ARMS BROKEN. 

far as the mouth of Licking without accident. Here, however, thej 
observed a few Indians, standing upon the southern extremity of a 
sandbar, while a canoe, rowed by three others, was in the act of 
putting off from the Kentucky shore, as if for the purpose of taking 
them aboard. Eodgers instantly ordered the boats to be made fast 
on the Kentucky shore, while the crew, to the number of seventy 
men, well armed, cautiously advanced in such a manner as to encir^ 
cle the spot where the enemy had been seen to land. Only five or 
six Indians had been seen, and no one dreamed of encountering more 
than fifteen or twenty enemies. 

When Rodgers, however, had, as he supposed, completely sur- 



THE WONDERFUL ESCAPE. 103 

rounded the enemy, and was preparing to rush upon them, from 
several quarters at once, he was thunderstruck at beholding several 
hundred savages suddenly spring up in front, rear, and upon both 
flanks. They instantly poured in a close discharge of rifles, and 
then throwing down their guns, fell upon the survivors with the 
tomahawk. The panic was complete, and the slaughter prodigious. 
Major Eodgers, together with forty-five of his men, were almost 
instantly destroyed. The survivors made an effort to regain their 
boats, but the five men who had been left in charge of them, had 
immediately put off from the shore in the hindmost boat, and the 
enemy had already gained possession of the others. Disappointed 
in the attempt, they turned furiously upon the enemy, and aided by 
the approach of darkness, forced their way through their lines, and 
with the loss of several severely wounded at length eCected their 
escape to Ilarrodsburgh. 

AmoDg the wounded was Captain Robert Benham. Shortly after 
breaking through the enemy's line, he was shot through both hips, 
and the bones being shattered, he instantly fell to the ground. 
Fortunately, a large tree had lately fallen near the spot where he 
lay, and with great pain, he dragged himself into the top, and lay 
concealed among the branches. The Indians, eager in pursuit of 
the others, passed him without notice, and by midnight all was 
quiet. On the following day, the Indians returned to the battle 
ground, in order to strip the dead and take care of the boats. Ben- 
ham, although in danger of famishing, permitted them to pass with- 
out making known his condition, very correctly supposing that his 
crippled legs would only induce them to tomahawk him upon the 
spot, in order to avoid the trouble of carrying him to their town. 

He lay close therefore, until the evening of the second day, when 
perceiving a raccoon descending a tree, near him, he shot it, hoping 



104 



THE WONDERFUL ESCAPE. 



to devise some means of reaching it, when he could kindle a fire and 
make a meal. Scarcely had his gun cracked, however, when he 
heard a human cry, apparently not more than fifty yards off. Sup- 
posing it to be an Indian, he hastily reloaded his g'un, and remained 
silent, expecting the approach of an enemy. Presently the same 
voice was heard again, but much nearer. Still Benham made no 
reply, but cocked his gun and sat ready to fire as soon as an object 
appeared. A third halloo was quickly heard, followed by an ex-, 
clamation of impatience and distress, which convinced Benham that 
the unknown must be a Kentuckian. As soon, therefore, as he 
heard the expression " whoever you are, for God's sake answer me !" 
he replied with readiness, and the parties were soon together. 

Benham, as we have already observed, was shot through both 

legs ! The man who now appeared, had escaped from the same 

battle, with both arms broken ! Thus each was able to supply what 

the other wanted. Benham having the perfect use of his arms, 

,^^"" " ^^^ could load his gun 

^ -'^^^''"^^ '"T^^^ and kill game, with 

^ great readiness, 
xi''iJlMfB'l*» while his friend 

^ ^^ having the use of 

ill!« his legs, could kick 

III mK' J ^iie game to the 
^ spot where Benham sat, 
_ _ who was thus enabled to 
:^^ cook it. When no wood 
was near them, his com- 
panion would rake up 
brush with his feet, and gradually roll it within reach of Benham's 
hands, who constantly fed his companion, and dressed his wounds 




THE MAN WHO CODLD WALK, WAS THCS ENABLED 
TO BRINU WATER, BY MEANS OF HIS TEETH. 



THE WONDERFUL ESCAPE. 105 

as well as his own-tearing up both of their shirts for that purpose. 
They found some difficulty in procuring water, at first ; but Benham 
at length took his own hat, and placing the rim between the teeth 
of his companion, directed him to wade into the Licking, up to his 
neck, and dip the hat into the water, by sinking his own head. 
The man who could walk was thus enabled to bring water, by means 
of his teeth, which Benham could afterward dispose of as was 

necessary. 

In a few days they had killed all the squirrels and birds within 
reach, and the man with the broken arms was sent out to drive 
game within gunshot of the spot to which Benham was confined. 
Fortunately, wild turkeys were abundant in those woods, and his 
companion would walk around, and drive them towards Benham, 
who seldom failed to kill two or three of each flock. In this man- 
ner, they supported themselves for several weeks, until their wounds 
had healed, so as to enable them to travel. They then shifted their 
quarters, and put up a small shed at the mouth of the Licking, 
where they encamped until late in November, anxiously expecting 
the arrival of some boat, which should convey them to the falls of 

the Ohio. 

On the 27th of November, they observed a flat boat moving 
leisurely down the river. Benham instantly hoisted his hat upon a 
stick and hallooed loudly for help. The crew, however, supposing 
them to be Indians; at least suspecting them of an intention to 
decoy them ashore, paid no attention to their signals of distress, but 
instantly put over to the opposite side of the river, and manning every 
oar, endeavored to pass them as rapidly ^ possible. Benham be- 
held them pass him with a sensation bordering on despair, for the 
place was much frequented by Indians, and the approach of winter 
threatened them with destruction, unless speedily relieved. At 



106 



THE WONDERFUL ESCAPE. 




length, after the boat had passed him nearly half a mile, he saw a 
canoe put off from its stem, and cautiously approach the Ken- 
tucky shore, evidently reconnoiter- 
ing them with great suspicion. He 
called loudly upon them for assist- 
ance, mentioned ^ 
his name and made 
known his condi- 
tion. After a long 
parley, and many 
evidences of reluc- 
tance on the part 
of the crew, the 

THE CREW PAID NO ATTENTION TO THEIR SIGNALS OF DISTRESS, 

canoe at length but instantly put over to the opposite side of the river. 
touched the shore, and Benham and his friend were taken on board. 
Their appearance excited much suspicion. They were almost en- 
tirely naked, and their faces were garnished with six weeks growth 
of beard. The one was barely able to hobble upon crutches, and 
the other could manage to feed himself with one of his hands. They 
were instantly taken to Louisville, where their clothes (which had 
been carried off in the boat which deserted them) were restored to 
them, and after a few weeks confinement, both were perfectly re- 
stored. 

Benham afterwards served in the northwest throughout the whole 
of the Indian war, accompanied the expeditions of Plarmcr and 
Wilkinson, shared in the disaster of St. Clair, and afterward in the 
triumph of Wayne. Upon the return of peace, he bought the land 
upon which Rodgers had been defeated, and ended his days in tran- 
quillity, amid the scenes which had witnessed his sufferings. 



THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS. 



107 



THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS 

An old man by the name of Yokum had been the terror of the 
part of Lousiana where he formerly resided, we believe upon Fla- 




OLD YOKUM's house OF ENTERTAINMENT AT PINE ISLAND PRAIRIE. 

quemine Brule, or in that vicinity. It has often been told us by old 
settlers from that portion of the state, that not one of Yokum s family 
or of the gang whom he kept around him, had met with a natural 
death. 

This patriarch in crime selected " Pine Island Prairie,'' in the 
lower part of Eastern Texas, as a place where he would be but little 
troubled with inquisitive neighbors ; and where, from its location 
upon the road leading from Belew's Ferry upon the Sabine through 
Liberty, and crossing the San Jacinto at the Attascaseta ford to 
Houston, he would be sure to entertain, that is, " keep" or " receive," 
almost every traveler that chose that route. 



108 THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS. 

Knowing the advantages of a good character at home, he soon, by 
his liberality, apparent good-humor, and obliging disposition, suc- 
ceeded in ingratiaing liimself with the few settlers who were, with 
backwoods courtesy, called neighbors, — any one within fifteen miles 
being entitled to the benefit of the term. 

The first thing that attracted general suspicion and inquiry, was 
the appearance of his stud. Planters and stock-raisers in Texas 
keep many horses, but they are usually of the small breed of Louisi- 
ana Creole ponies, or those of the Spanish kind. The larger breed 
of horses from the Northern or Western States are designated as 
" American horses," and seldom met with, unless perchance a physi- 
cian, lawyer, or wealthy planter may keep one as his especial saddle- 
horse. Travelers, however, are generally mounted upon them. 

No Texan can conceal his stock of cattle, or his stud, as every 
acre of prairie and timber is thoroughly hunted over once and often 
twice a year, by large parties of stock-raisers, who join together and 
ride over the whole country within twenty and thirty miles of their 
residences, and very frequently much farther, gathering every four- 
footed beast into the nearest pen, and selecting out their own for the 
purpose of branding them. Ignorant, except of their own peculiar 
business ; their knowledge of every thing pertaining to cattle ; their 
recollection of, and skill in managing them, is wonderful. It is not 
surprising, then, that the large and increasing stock of American 
horses, which were found grazing in the prairie near Yokum's, ex- 
cited their suspicion. Inquiries for missing travelers, and the non- 
appearance of some who were known to have stopped upon the road 
at houses east of Yokum's, but who did not make their appearance 
again, furnished additional cause. At length, by a very singular 
train of events, things came to a crisis. 

A man named Carey, an industrious, hard-working person, settled 



THE Desperado and the regulators. 109 

upon a prairie, near Cedar Bayou, in company with a Mr. Page. 
They owned a small tract, and cultivated a small farm jointly. 

Near them — in fact, the fences of their plantations joined — lived 
a Mr. Britton, a blustering, quarrelsome down-easter, who, in con- 
sideration of his Goliah-like proportions, determined upon ruling 
the prairie. 

Britton, Page, and Carey occupied the same " league" of land, 
and ere long the former was embroiled with the two latter in a 
violent dispute, commencing with a difficulty in the division of the 
property, and aggravated by that fruitful subject, a quarrel about 
their dogs. 

Page kept sheep, but no dogs ; and Britton dogs, but no sheep. 
Britton's favorite dog killed Page's sheep, and Page or Carey killed 
Britten's dog. Here, now, was a germ for a serious difficulty, and 
in itself a very pretty quarrel as it stood. Soon after, Britton met 
Carey upon the prairie, and horse-whipped him. Threats and re- 
criminations followed, but nothing serious resulted from them for 
nearly a year. 

At last, something again excited Britten's ire, and he sent word 
to Carey that he was braiding a lash for his especial benefit — a lash 
that would cut him to the bone. 

Carey's business, that afternoon, caused him to visit a neighbor, 
a new settler, who was living, pro tern., in a small log pen, or house. 
Here he found his antagonist, — sitting in the door, and leaning his 
head back against the door-post, — and also two or three other 
persons, who had called upon the new comer. 

Carey entered, placed a rifle which he was carrying upon the bed, 
and, after remaining some half an hour, during which time nothing 
had passed between him and his enemy, rose to retire. His gun lay 
with its muzzle towards the door, and Carey stepped round the bed, 



110 



THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS. 




as if to raise the j^^un by the breech. As soon as he put his hands 
upon the piece, it was discharged, and a ball passed through 
Britton's brain. He fell dead in- 
stantly, without word or groan. I 
am in error, however, in stating 
that he fell dead ; for so quickly did 
death supervene the rifle's 
report, that he remained sit- 
ting bolt upright, and the 
spectators did not know until 
Carey had left the room, that 
any thing more serious than 
an accidental discharge of 
the rifle had taken place. 

The perpetrator of this britton fell dead instantlt, withott ^^ouo 

^ ^ ' OR GROAN. 

homicide (whether accidental or intentional none but his Maker and 
himself can tell) immediately fled from the county, and took refuge 
with old Yokum, probably judging that his late deed would be a 
fitting letter of introduction. 

Yokum received him with open arms, promised to protect and 
defend him, and, if necessary to secure his retreat from the county 
in safety. 

This, however, was very far from his real design, and he kept 
Carey housed for a long time, a prey to agonizing fears, which were 
not allayed by the tales he was told of the threats that the county 
had made of taking Iilm by force, and lynching him. 

Thus workmg upon his fears, Yokum prevented his prisoner (for 
such he really was) fiom carrying out the intention which he had 
expressed soon after his arrival, of delivering himself up for trial as 
soon as the momentary excitement of the people had died away; 



THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS. 1 1 1 

and ultimately persuaded him of the absolute necessity that existed 
to dispose of his property in Texas as best he might, and then to fly 
from the country. Yokum offered to purchase the " improvements," 
which were valuable, and to facilitate his exodus and that of Page's 
family ; and placing full faith in his honesty of purpose, Carey gave 
him a letter to his friend, directing him to make a deed of sale of 
the plantation, &c., to Yokum. 

Yokum immediately rode over to the scene of the late disturb- 
ance, and finding Page ready to comply with his partner's wishes, 
left with him some of his fine American horses, with which the 
family were to escape, and which was to be the first payment, 
together with a sum of money which he promised them, — towards 
the purchase of the estate. 

During Carey's residence in the backwoods Alsatia, he had formed 
an acquaintance with one of the clan who seemed to have taken a 
fancy to him, and to whom he probably was indebted for his life. 
AVhile Yokum was absent, this person opened Carey's eyes as to the 
whole plot, which was now drawing to its close. The whole pro- 
perty was to be transferred to Yokum by Carey's agent, Page, for a 
nominal consideration, and Yokum promised to hold it till he could 
sell it to advantage, and then to send the money to Carey, or to pay 
it over to his agent. In the meanwhile the horses were given, or 
lent, and a small sum of money. 

This, however, was all pretence, and Yokum's true design was to 
obtain a legal title to the plantation, and then to dispose of Carey 
in such a manner that there would be no danger of his turning up 
again. There was another necessity for this course : Carey had 
learnt too many and too dangerous secrets, for Yokum to trust bim 
out of his sight. Carey escaped, and fled to the house of one of the 
most influential men in Liberty county, to whom he confided all his 



112 



THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS. 



knowledge of Yokum and his doings, and also stated his intention 
of delivering himself up immediately for trial. 

The people were called together, and determined to take the law 
in their own hands, to punish the guilty, and to drive the entire clan 
out of the country. 

Upon their arrival at Yokum's house, they found that he had 
escaped, and setting themselves to work to make such investigation 
as they could, soon satisfied themselves of his undoubted crime. 

A negro informed them where the bones of a traveler could be 
found, viz., in an old well ; and those of another were said to have 
been discovered bleaching upon the prairie. Yokum's family were 
ordered to leave the house, the furniture was removed, and the 
premises set on fire. The family, and all the hangers-on, had a 
certain number of days allowed them to move their effects and leave 
the county, being threatened with death if they ever returned. 

This last measure 
was one of neces- 
sity, as the safety 
of all those con- 
cerned in their re- 
moval depended 
upon it. 

The Regulators 
set forth upon 
Yokum's trail, and succeeded in finding 
him at a house near Spring Creek, in 
the present county of Montgomery, and then known as Spring Creek 
county. The culprit was secured and carried some miles on the 
homeward route, when his captors dismounted, informed him that 
his time had come, and giving him one short half hour to repent the 
villainies of a long lifetime, shot him through the heart. 







DOOM OF THE DESPERADO. 



THE DESPERADO AND THE REGULATORS. 



113 



The family of Yokum, and all connected with them, left the 
county and emigrated further west, denouncing the lynching party 
and sw^earing that they would be revenged upon every one who had 
a hand in the affair. There is no doubt but that some of these 
threats would have been fulfilled, had not the citizens of Liberty 
county proved that they were terribly in earnest, in their determina- 
tion to take instant and fatal measures, with any one of the clan 
who should dare to again cross the county line. 

The least objectionable of all of Yokum's tribe, one of his sons, 
Christopher — perhaps the only one against whom some heinous 
crime could not have been established — had married a short time 
before the general breaking up of the gang. His wife refused to 
accompany or to follow him, but promised to live with him if he 
would return ; and, after waiting a year, 
he determined to do so. Whether this 
^■^ was a mere ruse to obtain a foot-hold 
again, and to provide a house of refuge for 
others to carry out their threatened re- 
^ venge, I know not, but it proved 
a fatal affair for him. As soon 
-^^1 as the sheriff heard of his pre- 
fi sence, he immediately put him 
I in the jail at Beaumont, in order 
to save his life, and if possible 
to assist him to escape. But all precautions were useless. The 
people rose immediately upon learning of Yokum's arrival, and 
taking him out of jail, hung him upon the first tree. 
8 




DOOM OF THE DESPERADO'S SON. 



114 THE ranger's thrilling INDIAN ADVENTURE. 



THE RAWGEE'S THRILLING INDIAN ADVENTURE. 

At nineteen years of age, Dr. Blank, of Massachusetts, joined the 
army of the provinces that in 1755 essayed to take Crown Point 




from the French. He 
marched to the lakes 



THE ABENAKI PITCHED FORWARD TO THE GROUND, AND HIS With ColonCl jliphraim 
SHAVEN HEAD PLOUGHED UP THE SNOW FOR YARDS. ttt-it ii i 

Williams, than whom 
a more gallant man never breathed the air of New England. The 
doctor fought under his command at Lake George, on the memorable 
eighth of September ; saw, or imagined be saw, the fall of his brave 
leader ; and is quite sure that he put a bullet into the French ofQcer, 
Mons. St. Pierre. The next year he joined Rodgers' company of 
Rangers, and was stationed with a party of them at Fort Ann, not 
far from where Whitehall now stands. But at that day it was a 
** dark and bloody ground ;" a frontier station in the forests, which 
were filled with rival savages attached to France or England. 

One day, in mid-winter, eight rangers, with a sergeant, were 



THE ranger's thrilling INDIAN ADVENTURE. 115 

ordered out on some service, the doctor did not know what, but 
probably to seize some straggling Frenchman about Ticonderoga or 
Crown Point, and bring him to the fort, for the sake of obtaining 
intelligence. He was himself of the party. A narrow road, or 
rather path, led northward toward Canada, and they followed it for 
several hours. There had just been a heavy fall of snow ; all the 
pines and hemlocks in the forest were loaded thick with it ; and as 
the afternoon was still and clear, only occasional flakes or light 
masses dropped from the burdened boughs like feathers. These 
circumstances were stamped on the old man's mind, seeming like a 
constantly recurring dream. The rangers waded in Indian file 
through the snow, and as danger was apprehended, a man was placed 
some rods in advance, one on each flank, and another behind. This 
last was the doctor himself, " and this was the gun T carried," said 
he, taking a short heavy piece from a corner. 

At length they descended into a hollow : the frozen sheet of Lake 
George lay not far on to the left, and a steep hill on the right. The 
ground, a short distance before them, was low and swampy, and a 
little brook had spread itself out on the path, making a frozen space, 
free from trees, across which their advanced man was now slowly 
trampling, crushing his boots into the ice and water at every step. 
He paused suddenly, turned sharply round, and gave the low whistle 
appointed as the signal of alarm. He had seen the tracks of many 
moccasined feet in the fresh snow beyond. There was not time to 
think ; the loud report of a gun broke the stillness. The ranger 
gave a shrill scream, leaped four feet into the air and fell flat. In- 
stantly the Indian yell burst from the woods on our right and left, 
followed by the stunning rattle of more than fifty guns, and not a 
man of the rangers but one ever moved alive from the spot where he 
stood transfixed with surprise at the sudden death of his comrade. 



116 THE ranger's thrilling INDIAN ADVENTURE. 



That man was our hero, whose position, far behind the rest, saved 
him. He remembered the panic felt at the fierce burst of yells and 
musketry, and the sudden rush of the savage swarm from their 
ambush, upon his fallen comrades ; and, in the next instant that his 
memory could recall, he was flying back toward the fort. He heard 
sharp, sudden yelps behind him, and glancing back, saw two Indians 
bounding on his track. He ran a mile, he should think, without 
turning or hearing a snigle sound ; then turning his head saw an 
Indian leaping, silent as a spectre, within a few rods of him. With 
admirable coolness, he turned quickly round, and raising his gun 
with a steady hand, fired with such good effect that the Abenaki 
pitched forward to the ground, and his shaven head ploughed up the 
snow for yards, by the impulse of his headlong pursuit. The young 

soldier turned and fled again, and as 

did so he heard the report of the 

other Indian's gun, followed by the 

loud humming of the ball. So alert 

attentive were his faculties, 

he observed where the bullet 

struck upon a loaded bough 

in front of him ; scattering 

the glittering particles of 

snow. 

The path now led down- 
ward with a steep descent ; 
at the bottom an ancient pine 

HE HEARD A WILD AND HORRID CRY, AND TURN- trCO had fallCU aCrOSS it, 
ING SAW A BIGHT THAT HAS MURDERED HIS 

SLEEP FOR MANY A NIGHT SINCE. whoso sharp brokcu branches 

rose up perpendicularly from the prostrate trunk four or five feet 
from the ground, blocking up the way, like a bristling chevaux-de- 




THE ranger's thrilling INDIAN ADVENTURE. lit 

frise. The rangers had previously turned aside to avoid it. There 
was no time to do so now. The doctor's limbs were small and light 
but as active as a deer's, and the Indian's tomahawk was close 
behind. Without hesitating, he ran down and sprang into the air. 
His foot caught, so that he fell on the other side ; but he snatched 
up his gun and ran again. In a moment he heard a wild and horrid 
cry, and turning as he ran up the opposite hill, he saw a sight that 
has murdered his sleep for many a night since. The daring savage 
had leaped like him, but not so well ; he had tripped, and one of the 
broken branches had caught and impaled him on its upright point, 
passing upward into the cavity of his chest ! He saw the starting 
eye-balls, and the painted features hideously distorted, and paused 
to see no more. 

About sunset the sentinels of Fort Ann saw him emerging from 
the woods, running as if the Indians were still behind him. A 
strong party sent out next morning found the bodies of the rangers 
stripped, and frozen in the various positions in which they died, so 
that they appeared like marble statues. On a tree close by, the 
French officer who commanded the Abenakis had fastened a piece 
of birch bark, inscribed with an insolent and triumphant message to 
the English. The bodies of the two Indians had been removed, 
although the white snow around the old pine tree retained ineffacea- 
ble marks of the tragedy that had been enacted there, and was 
beaten hard by the moccasins of a crowd of savages who had 
gathered about that place. 

This taste of war was enough for the doctor's martial zeal. He 
did not take the field again till twenty years afterward, when he 
came to Washington's camp at Cambridge, armed with probe and 
balsam, instead of a musket and powder. 



118 



THE FIGHTING PARSON. 



THE FIGHTING PARSON. 

New England, after the defeat of Burgoyne, seemed for awhile 
to be left out of the war, so ffir as any invasiou of her territory was 

concerned, and in 1779 
^A\ \ \ ^& i^L \ Yale College had re- 
covered in a great 




H^^jsjsMsVWAV^V. 



THE PARbON SINKS EXHAUSTED AND BLEEDING ON THE GROUND. 

measure from its troubles, and was in a prosperous condition. 

But in the midst of its tranquillity a rumor reached New Haven 
that the British were about to make a descent upon it. The place 
was immediately thrown into a state of the greatest alarm, and a 
meeting was called to deliberate on what was to be done. Dr. 
Dagget was a Professor of Divinity in the College, but in the interim 
of regular presidents he had been elected president 'pro tern. The 
college of course would be again broken up by this invasion. The 
students, such as did not wish to unite in any plan of resistance, 
could easily scatter to the back country ; but the great question was, 
what should be done with the inhabitants? Various plans and 
propositions were presented, auiJ at length the President of Yale 



THE FIGHTING PARSON 119 

College was asked his opinion. It was well known that be had 
preached the duty of resistance as obedience to God, and shown 
himself in every way an ardent patriot ; but what he would advise 
when the overwhelming and insolent foe was at the door, was quite 
another thing. The students, who had often been fired by his elo- 
quent appeals, were not a little curious to know what their President 
and Professor of Divinity would counsel in this fearful emergency. 

The character of the college they considered to be at stake, for if 
their President advised tame submission, an abject attitude, on the 
ground that resistance would be of no avail, the institution at whose 
head he stood would be compromised. They hoped, therefore, he 
would take a manly course, even if he deemed it best to pursue a 
peaceable one. They were not long kept in suspense, for when their 
venerated teacher arose, the flashing eye and compressed lip told 
them at once that Yale need not fear for her patriotic reputation. 
Instead of counseling moderation, and weighing all the suggestions 
as to the various courses to be pursued, he took the ground of the 
soldier at once, and said, no matter what else they might do, they 
must at all hazards ji^/i^; and, then, to let them know that this was 
not the advice of one, who, by his profession and position was 
exempt from military duty, he coolly informed them if no other 
person was found to resist he should fight alone. 

It was finally resolved to raise a volunteer company of a hundred 
men, who should march out in the morning and retard the enemy, 
so as to give the inhabitants as much time as possible to remove 
their effects. 

In the meantime, the exciting news came that Tryon, with a 
force twenty-five hundred strong, had landed at West Haven, only 
five miles distant, and was about to march directly on the place. 
In an instant all was confusion aud alarm, and the inhabitants, on 



120 



THE FIGHTING PARSON. 



foot and in carriages, alone and in groups, were seen pouring 
out of the city toward the open country. In the midst of the alarm, 
the volunteers, at the stirring notes of the fife and drum, hastily 
assembled, and armed with such weapons as they could lay their 
hands on, took the road toward West Haven. It was a hot July 
morning, but they pressed cheerfully on, determined to retard if they 
could not arrest the heavy force advancing against them. Parson 
Trumbull, of North Haven, was there mounted on his horse, that 
could stand fire as well as he, for both had been under it before. 
Dagget apparently had at the last moment backed out ; the good 
Professor of Divinity could talk bravely, but when it came to smell- 
ing gunpowder it made a difference. 

But while they were marching along, a cloud of dust was seen to 
rise along the road toward New Haven, and soon a solitary horse- 
man appeared in view, galloping 
fiercely forward. They at first 
thought it was 
some messenger 
sent to overtake 
them ; but when 
the rider drew near, 
they beheld to their 
surprise. President 
Dagget on his old 

black mare, with a the parson in for the fight. 

long fowling piece in his hand. The faithful animal had often 
jogged around the streets of New Haven, and along the country 
roads, bearing her dignified master at a dignified rate of speed, and 
was astonislied to find herself tearing like a racer along the highway. 
The volunteers, supposing that he was going to join them and make 




THE FIGHTING PAIISON. 121 

good his word, received him with loud cheers. With Parson 
Trumbull and President Dagget to show them how to fight, they 
felt they could easily do their duty. To their surprise, however, he 
did not stop to join them, but, turning neither to the right nor the 
left, pushed straight on toward the enemy. Concluding he was 
hastening forward to reconnoitre, they gave him a parting c'icrr, 
and pressed on after him. 

Dagget, after advancing some distance, tnrii-d from the main 
road,7nd ascended an eminence crowned with a grove, where he 
halted, and took a survey of the surrounding country. The little 
band of volunteers, keeping more to the south, swept round the 
base of the hill, and soon came upon the advance-guard of the enemy. 
Throwing themselves behind a fence, they poured in a destructive 
volley, which brought it to a sudden halt. Following up their 
advantage, they broke cover, and leaping the fence, drove the 
astonished guard before them. Firing and shouting as they ad- 
vanced, they chased it from fence to fence, and across field after 
field, until they found themselves in front of the whole army. As 
far as the eye could reach on either side, the green fields were red 
with scarlet uniforms, the extending wings ready to enfold them and 
cut off every avenue of escape. Instantly halting, and taking in 
the full extent of their danger, they did not wait for the word of 
command, but turned and ran for their lives. 

As they fled along the base of the hill, on the top of which Doctor 
Dagget had taken his station, they were surprised he did not join 
lhe"nl. But the blood of the patriotic President was now thoroughly 
aroused, and he scorned to retreat. Casting a quiet glance upon 
the confusion and terror below him, he turned toward the enemy, 
and leveling his fowling-piece at those more advanced, blazed away. 
As the British pressed after the fugitives, they W3re surprised to 



122 



THE FIGHTING PARSON. 



hear every few moments the solitary report of a gun from the grove 
on the hill. At first they paid but little attention to it, but the 
bullets finding their way steadily into the ranks, they were com- 
pelled to notice it, and sent up a detachment to see what it meant. 
The President saw them coming, but never moved from his position. 
His mare stood by him, and he could any moment have mounted 
and fled, but this seemed never to have entered his head. He was 
thinking only of the enemy, and loaded and fired as fast as he 
could. 

"When the detachment reached the grove, the ofiicer commanding 
it saw, to his amazement, only a venerable man in black, quietly 
loading his fowling-piece to have another 
shot. Pausing a moment at the extraor- 
dinary spectacle of a single clergy- 
''^^Wi man fighting the whole British army, 
'^ *^Si^ he exclaimed : ** What are you doing 
f ^"^ -^ ^^m ^^6re, you old fool, firing on 
his Majesty's troops?" The 
Professor of Divinity looked 
up in the most unconcerned 
manner, and replied : " Exer- 
cising the T'ights of war!" 
The whole affair seemed to 
strike the ofiicer comically, 
and amused rather than of- 
fended at the audacity of the answer, he said : " If I let you go 
this time, you old rascal, will you ever again fire on the troops of 
his Majesty ?" " Nothing more likely" was the imperturbable reply. 
This was too much for the good temper of the Briton, and he ordered 
his men to seize him. They did, and dragged him roughly down 
the hill to the head of the column. 





EXERCISING THE RIGHTS OF WAF 



THE FIGHTING PARSON 123 

The volunteers in their retreat tore down the bridge over the 
river after crossing it, thus compeUing the British to march two 
miles further up the stream before they could effect a passage. The 
latter immediately placed Doctor Dagget on foot at the head of the 
column, and told him to lead the way. It was the fifth of July, and 
one of the hottest days of the year, and as it was now near meridian, 
the heat was overpowering. The strongest man unaccustomed to 
exposure, would sink under such a burning sun, and Dr. Dagget 
soon became exhausted from the heat as well as from the driving 
pace they kept him at. He, however, staggered on until, at last, 
feeling he could not take another step, he halted and endeavored to 
lean against the fence for support. But the enraged soldiers would 
not allow him a moment's rest, and ruthlessly pricked him on with 
their bayonets, at the same time showering curses on his rebel head. 
With every indication of weariness the point of the bayonet forced 
him to rally his sinking energies, while the blood flowed in streams 
down his dress. 

As they entered the streets of the town, the soldiers commenced 
shooting the peaceable citizens whenever they dared to show them- 
selves, and as one after another fell in his sight. Doctor Dagget 
expected his turn would come next. At length they reached the 
green, and halted, when he sank exhausted and bleeding on the 
grass. .A tory coming out to welcome the British, saw the pale, 
dusty and bleeding President lying on the ground, and shocked at 
the sight, besought the commanding officer, in the name of humanity, 
to spare his life. He granted his request with an insulting epithet, 
and the wounded man was carried into a neighboring house more 
dead than alive. His jitter exhaustion, combined with the brutal 
treatment he had received, brought on a fever that reduced him so 
low that his life was despaired of. Having a strong constitution, 



124 THE SEMINOLE CHIEFTAIN'S TOUCHING APPEAL. 

he rallied, however, and was able a part of the next year to preach 
in the chapel, but his system had received a shock from which it 
could not entirely recover, and in sixteen months he was borne to 
the grave, adding one more to the list of noble souls who considered 
no sacrifice too great for their country. 



THE SEMIlSrOLE CHIEFTAIN'S TOUCHING APPEAL. 

The " talk" of Coacoochee, or Wild Cat, to Col. Worth and to 
his own people, exceeds, in point of pathos and deep feeling, any 
thing we ever 
heard. 

Wild Cat 
had repeated- 
ly deceived 
the officers, by 




"sat to my band that mt feet are chained." • 

*' coming in," and after he had received supplies as an inducement 
for his band to surrender, would make his escape and prosecute the 
war with renewed activity. He was finally captured by Major 
Childs and sent at once, with some fifteen others captured at the 
same time, to Arkansas. At New Orleans they were met by ex- 
press orders from Col. Worth to return to Florida. He intended to 
use Coacoochee's influence and bring the war to a close. 



THE SEMINOLE CHIEFTAIN'S TOUCHING APPEAL. 125 

A captive, and in irons, he had been told by Worth, that he had 
been brought back from Tampa Bay, for the purpose of aiding in 
bringing the war to a close at once. He was told that he might 
select five of his companions who should be permitted to go to his 
band — then in the swamps — and induce them to come in. " Name 
the time," said "Worth, " it shall be granted ; but I tell you, as I 
wish you to tell your friends, that unless they fulfill your demands, 
3'ourself and these warriors now seated before us, shall be hung to 
the yards of this vessel, when the sun sets on the day appointed, 
with the irons on your hands and feet. T tell you this that we may 
understand each other ; I do not wish to frighten you, you are too 
brave a man for that ; but what I say I mean, and I'll do it. It is 
for the benefit of the white man and the red man. This war must 
end, and you must end it." 

Coacoochee rose, and turning to Col. Worth, said, in a subdued 
tone, " I was once a boy ; then I saw the white man afar ofi". I 
hunted in these woods with a bow and arrow ; then with a rifle. I 
saw the white man and was told he was my enemy. I could not 
shoot him as I would a wolf or bear ; yet like these he came upon 
me ; horses, cattle, and fields he took from me. He said he was my 
friend ; he abused our women and children, and told us to go from 
the land. Still he gave us his hand in friendship ; we took it ; whilst 
taking it, he had a snake in the other ; his tongue was forked like 
the serpent ; he lied, and stung us. I asked but for a small piece of 
these lands, enough to plant and live upon, far south, a spot where 
I could place the ashes of my kindred, a spot only sufficient to lay 
my wife and child upon. This was not granted me. I was put in 
prison ; I escaped ; I have been again taken ; you have brought me 
back ; I am here ; I feel the irons in my heart. I have listened to 
your talk ; you and your officers have taken us by the hand in friend- 



126 THE SEMINOLE CHIEFTAIN'S TOUCHING APPEAL. 

ship. I thank you for bringing me back ; I can now see my warriors, 
my women and children ; the Great Spirit thanks you ; the heart of 
the poor Indian thanks you. We know but little ; we have no 
books which tell all things ; but we have the Great Spirit, moon and 
stars ; these told me last night you would be our friend. I give you 
my word ; it is the word of a warrior, a brave, a chief; it is the word 
of Coacoochee. It is true I have fought like a man, so have my 
warriors ; but the white man was too strong for us. I wish now to 
have my band around me and go to Arkansas. You say I must end 
the war ! Look at these irons ! can I go to my warriors ? Coacoo- 
chee chained ! No ; do not ask me to see them. I never wish to 
tread upon my land unless I am free. If I can go to them un- 
chained, they will follow me in ; but I fear they will not obey me 
when I talk to them in irons. They will say my heart is weak. I 
am afraid. Could I go free, they will surrender and emigrate." 

He was told in the most impressive manner that he could not be 
liberated until his entire band was collected at Fort Brooke ; then 
he might go on shore and meet them unshackled. He saw that his 
fate was inevitable. The vessel was two miles from shore ; sentinels 
were posted in every part of the ship, and escape by stealth or con- 
trivance was impossible. As the reality forced itself upon his mind 
that there were but two alternatives, he became sad and dejected. 
He gathered his warriors about him, and selected five who were to 
go to his band and inform them of the strait in which their chief and 
his fellow prisoners were placed. 

"Has not Coacoochee," said he, "sat with you by the council fire 
when the wolf and the white man was around us ? Have I not led 
the war dance and sung the song of the Seminole ? Hid not the 
spirits of our mothers, our wives, and our children, stand around us ? 
Has not ray scalping knife been red with blood and the scalps of our 



THE SEMINOLE CHIEFTAIN'S TOUCHING APPEAL. 127 



enemy been drj'ing in our camps ? Have I not made the war patli 
red with blood ? and has not the Seminole always found a home in 
my camp ? Then will the warriors of Coacoochee desert him ? No ! 
If your hearts are bad, let me see them now ; take them in your 
hands, and let me see that they are dark with bad blood ; but do not, 
like a dog, bite me so soon as you turn your backs. If Coacoochee 
is to die, he can die like a man. It is not my heart that shakes ; no, 
it Dever trembles ; but I feel for those now in the woods, pursued 
night and day by the soldiers ; for those who fought with us until we 
were weak. The sun shines bright to-day ; the day is clear ; so let 

your hearts be: 

the Great Spirit 

will guide you. At 

night when you 

camp, take these 

pipes and tobacco, 

build a fire when 

the moon is up 

and bright, dance 

around it, then let the fire go out, and just 

before the break of day, when the deer 

sleeps and the moon whispers to the 

dead, you will hear the voices of those 

•who have gone to the Great Spirit ; they 

will give you strong hearts, and heads to camp fires of the seminoles. 

carry the talk of Coacoochee. Say to my band that my feet are 

chained. I cannot walk, yet I send them my word as true from my 

heart as if I was on the war path or in the deer hunt. I am not a 

boy : Coacoochee can die, not with a shivering hand, but as when 

grasping the rifle with niy warriors around me. 




128 THE SEMINOLE CHIEFTAIN'S TOUCHING APPEAL. 

"My feet are chained, but the head and heart of Coacoochee 
reaches you. The great white chief (Po-car-ger) will be kind to us. 
Uft says when my band comes in I shall walk my land free, with my 
band around me. He has given you forty days to do this business 
in ; if you want more say so ; I will ask for more ; if not, be true to 
the time. Take these sticks ; here are thirty-nine, one for each day ; 
tliis, much longer than the rest, with the blood upon it, is the for- 
tieth. When the others are thrown away, and this only remainSj 
say to my people, that with the setting sun Coacoochee hangs like a 
dog, with none but white men to hear his last words. Come then ; 
come by the stars, as I have led you to battle ! Come, for the voice 
of Coacoochee speaks to you ! 

"Say this to my wife and child " He could not continue. 

Sobs choked his utterance as he thought of those loved ones, and 
he turned away to hide the tears which coursed down his cheeks. 
Not a sound disturbed the silence which pervaded the assembly, and 
officers and men, women and warriors, testified by their tears, their 
sympathy for the poor chieftain. In silence the chains were re- 
moved from the five messengers, and they prepared to depart. As 
the last one was going over the side, he removed from his person a 
handkerchief and breast-pin, and giving them to him, told him to 
hand them to his wife and child. 

Forty days and nights were past by the chieftain, as well as by 
the officers, in the most intense anxiety, and it was nearly as much 
to their relief, as to that of Coacoochee and his fellow prisoners, 
when the sun rose on the fortieth day and found the entire number, — 
seventy-eight warriors, sixty-four women and forty-seven children, — 
encamped within the bounds of Fort Brooke. 



THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT. 



129 



THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT.—NORFOLK IN 1776. 

The subjoined account of the burning of Norfolk, Ya., was some 
years ago received from the lips of a venerable old lady, since de- 
ceased. 

" I was only in my sixth year," 
said the venerable narrator, 
"when the cannonading and 
burning of Norfolk took place, 
by order 

of the ^^^^^ C^ 
Royal ^^fe:;:;^:— 
Go ver- 




THE FIRST G0N OF THE FLEET BREAKS THE HORRIBLE SCSPENSE. 



the impression of many things is as clear and vivid to me now as if 
they had happened yesterday. I was at the time residing with my 
uncle and aunt, who had a very handsome residence on one of the 
principal streets running back from the river. 

" One day, toward the last of the year 1775, I remember my uncle 
coming home under great excitement, declaring the patriots had 
won the first battle at Great Bridge— that the old scoundrel Lord 
Dunmore, had, with many of his followers and partisans, fled for 
their lives to a vessel in the stream — and thanking God that the 
patriot army, under Col. AVoodford, would soon have possession of 

the town. 
9 



130 THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT. 

" After this came a series of the most alarming rumors, which so 
affected my nervous and timid aunt, that she was suddenly struck 
down with paralysis, and was thus rendered incapable of assisting 
herself in the least. 

" At this time my uncle's household consisted of eleven persons — 
himself, wife and two young children, my grandmother, myself, and 
five negroes, two of whom were males. Fearing the male negroes 
could not be trusted at such a time, they were sent away to a place 
of security, and a strict watch was kept over the females, who could 
not be spared. I remember my grandmother carrying a silver- 
mounted dirk in her bosom, and I was told to report the least sus- 
picious conduct on the part of the blacks. 

" But the worst was yet to come. After several days of wild ex- 
citement, with the almost constant roll of the drum, the march- 
ing and countermarching of troops through the streets, the occasional 
thunder of cannon and the sharp rattle of musketry, news came that 
the governor was about to cannonade and burn the place. This 
intelligence was communicated to the authorities in the morning of 
the first January, 1776, and six hours were allowed for the women, 
children and non-combatants to leave the town. 

" My uncle came home in a state of great excitement, and consulted 
with my grandmother as to what was best to be done. The doctor 
had been consulted previously, and had given his opinion that my 
aunt could not be removed without a cost of life. And besides, 
where could she be taken, except into the open fields ? for beyond 
the town there were but a few scattered houses, and these would be 
over-crowded as hospitals for the sick and parties escaping from the 
doomed village. So it was finally decided that we should remain 
and take the chances ; and as our dwelling was pretty well back 
from the river, it was hoped we might escape the shots from the 
fleet, and perhaps the general conflagration along the wharves. 



THE HORRORS OP A BOMBARDMENT. 13 1 

" For greater security, my horror-stricken and helpless aunt was 
placed in a room the farthest from the street and river ; and into 
the same apartment we all crowded, black and white, looking the 
dismay and terror we all felt at our hearts. I remember sitting 
down on a cricket at the feet of my grandmother, and along with my 
elder cousin, burying my head in her lap, while she held the younger 
child in her arms, and spoke words of encouragement and hope to 
my poor aunt and the frightened blacks — my uncle, meantime, with 
a sword at his side, pacing rapidly up and down the adjoining apart- 
ment, and now and then stopping to listen to any peculiar sounds 
without. 

" As the time drew near for the opening of the awful work of 
destruction, we all became more and more agitated ; and when at 
length the first heavy gun of the fleet broke the horrible suspense, 
we all simultaneously started up with a sort of mournful cry or wail, 
to which it seemed as if the whole town responded with a shriek of 
fear and execration. Then gun after gun thundered away in 
rapid succession, drums rolled, musketry rattled, and shout upon 
shout reached us, with the stirring words, — 

" ' To arms 1 to arms ! turn out ! turn out ! the foe is upon us !' 

" ' Gogd-bye, my poor dear angel !' cried my uncle, hurrying to the 
side of my aunt, and pressing his lips to lips that scarcely had the 
power to tremble, though the face showed deathly pallor and the 
eyes rained tears. * May God in his mercy preserve us !' 

" He turned, caught up each of his children, and kissed them, with 
a trembling ' God save you,' treated me in the same fatherly manner, 
threw his arms around the neck of his weeping mother, grasped a 
hand of each of the trembling blacks, and then rushed from the 
dwelling to the defence of his country, his home, and all he held dear 
on earth. 



132 THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT. 

"I am not able to follow up the events in consecutive detail. I 
can only recall such as made the deepest impression, without regard 
to the lapse of time between each. Soon after the departure of my 
uncle, I do not remember how long, I heard a wild shout of 'Fire ! 
fire ! the town is on fire !' and there were sounds of gallopping 
horses, whirling vehicles, and men running in bodies, commingling 
with the almost constant booming of the heavy guns of the fleet, 
which were leveled against the place. We could see nothing in the 
room where we were, and impulsively I started up and followed one 
of the blacks up stairs, against the warning of my grandmother. 
My fears had now become 
secondary to my desire 
look upon the worst in 
its horrors. 

** From a window in 
second story, I saw 
smoke and flames 
rising up from sev- 
eral points along 
the river bank, and 
could here and there 
catch a glimpse of 
excited crowds of men running to and fro, and once or twice, as the 
smoke was whirled aside by a strong breeze blowing toward me, I 
caught a nK)mentary view of the tall spars and dark hull of a vessel, 
which was belching forth its tongues of fire and missiles of destruc- 
tion. 

" ' De Lord of Heben hab massy on us !' exclaimed the black girl, 
who was standing at the window with me. 

"It was her last prayer. The next moment a ball crashed 




A BALI. CRASHED THROUGH THE BUILDING, CARRYING HER 
HEAD WITH IT. 



THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT. 133 

through the building, carrying her head with it, and her lifeless 
body sunk down at my feet, pouring upon me a stream of blood. I 
shrieked and fainted. 

" When I came to my senses, we were all down in the cellar, whither 
we had been removed for safety, and all were crying and wringing 
their hands. My aunt had been borne down upon her bed, upon 
one corner of which I had been also laid. I remember starting up 
and shrieking in terror, though for the time I had forgotten what 
had happened. Then there were a few minutes of wild confusion, 
when my uncle suddenly appeared, with a couple of other men, and, 
" after commanding silence, said it was necessary that we should soon 
leave the house, for, besides the fact that the balls of the fleet could 
reach it, the fire was rapidly gaining ground, and before morning, 
perhaps within an hour, so powerful was the breeze blowing toward 
us, we should be wrapt in flames and surrounded by fighting men. 

" He then went to his poor wife, and began to speak some con- 
soling words; but suddenly stopped and uttered a long, loud, 
piercing wail, that seems yet to ring in my ears. 

" * What is it, my son ?' cried my grandmother, starting up in 
alarm. 

" ' She is dead ! she is dead !' groaned my uncle. 

" So it was, in truth — my aunt was already dead, and none could 
say when she died. It was no time to stand on ceremony, even with 
the most sacred things. A grave was dug in one corner of that 
very cellar, my poor aunt was buried forever from the living, and 
then we were all hurried into the street to make our escape. 

" It was now night, and the town lit up with the ghastly glare of 
the burning buildings, some of which had by this time caught so 
near my uncle's dwelling as to render it certain that it would soon 
go with the rest. The streets Vv'crc crowded with people in the wild- 



134 



THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT. 



est state of excitement — citizens and soldiers — men, women an^ 
cliildren — some hurrying toward the river to give the enemy battle, 
and some flying toward the open country, loaded with a few of their 
most valuable articles, which they were seeking to save from the 
general doom. In the whirl and confusion I somehow got separated 
from my friends ; and while endeavoring to find my way back to 
them, a body of men came running directly over the place where I 
stood. T remember of screaming in my fear of being suddenly 
trampled to death, and then of being caught up by strong arms and 
borne rapidly forward to the steps of some great building which was 
on fire. Here I was dropped by the man who had saved me ; but 
here, of course, I could not remain, and in attempting to get away I 
was knocked down by a party of armed men wau v.ere rushing to 
attack another party. I was not badly 
hurt, and managed to crawl aside into 
the passage-way of some building just 
as the firing began near me. 
There were shouts and yells, a dis- 
charge of fire-arms, and then a 
short, hand-to-hand combat. One 
party was driven by the other; and 
on venturing to look out, I saw two 
British soldiers lying near, one % 
dead, and the other- covered with 
blood, groaning and writhing and 

, , . , ., 1 1 •. . , THERE WAS A LOUD EXPLOSIOX NEAR, FOL 

lookmg terribly ghastly m the lowed by a wild cry. 

lurid light. I turned away with a sickening feeling of horror^ 

and, perfectly bewildered, ran I knew not whither. 

" I next remember the falling of a building, some of the cinders 
and sparks of which reached me and aet fire to my clothing, which 




THE HORRORS OF A BOMBARDMENT. 135 

a pale woman, with a bandaged head, assisted me to extinguish, 
saying : 

" ' God help you, poor child ! who are you ? and where do you 
belong ?' 

"Before I could reply, there was a loud explosion near, followed 
by a wild cry, and instantly the woman turned and ran away. 

''After this I scarcely know what did happen to me, or where I 
went, or how I escaped the surrounding dangers. "The whole lives 
confusedly in my memory, like the partial remembrance of some 
horrid dream. Pale, ghastly faces — bloody phantoms — burning and 
crashing buildings — the roar of cannon — the rattle of musketry — the 
clash of sabres — the heavy tramping of armed bodies — shouts, yells, 
shrieks and groans — all these are mixed up in my recollection in 
wild and inextricable confusion. 

"By some means I was restored to my grandmother, but I never 
saw my uncle again. He was killed some time after in attempting 
to capture a British gunboat. They told me that the town was 
three days burning, and was nearly all consumed, and that every body 
suffered terribly from the want of provisions, some actually dying of 
starvation. I heard this after I got back to my parents in Rich- 
mond and recovered from a slow fever. But this of course is known 
to history. My own recollections are what I have given, and I 
pray God I may never witness the destruction of another town or 
city." 



136 



A TEXAN^ ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 



A TEXAN EANGEK'S FEARFUL ADVENTUBE AMONG 
THE GUEKILLAS. 

Many who took part in the Mexican campaign, with Taylor's 
command, will doubtlc'Ss recollect among the quartermaster's men, 

stationed at Mon- 
^ terey, a somewhat 
noted ranger of the 
name of Jean 
Bruno. 

They will the 
more readily call 
him to mind from 
the fact of his 
having lost one 
\»m arm-^I think it was 
^ the left one — and 
also from the dash- 
ing appearance he 
always made on 
horseback, being 



^^^. jg^_j?^ invariably mounted on the most f3pirited and 
"S^ unbroken nags in the quartermaster's stables. 
THE GUERILLAS' KANCHo. r^^i^Q^^ j^q^Iq anlmals hc managed with the skill- 
fulness of a ranchiero, frequently using his teeth to assist his one 
hand in the control of them. 

Jean was a Frenchnian, who had seen service in Algeria, and had 
rendered himself quite famous on our line by numerous daring feats, 
such as conveying important dispatches where no other express 




A TEXAN RANGER'ti FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 137 

riders conld be induced to venture, cutting his way, single-handed 
and alone, through the enemy's pickets, charging in darkness 
through their camps and bivouacs, and by numerous consequent 
hairbreadth escapes, in one of which he received the wound making 
necessary the amputation of the limb referred to. 

Our little Frenchman was one of those constitutionally brave men, 
who never experience the sensation of fear. In fact, he had little 
idea of the word. Yet withal he was possessed of much prudence 
in dangerous positions, with a ready invention which carried him 
safely through them. He used to say — 

" Let me select my own horse, and give me a brace of trusty 
revolvers and a dragoon sabre, and I will guarantee to ride from 
Monterey to the city of Mexico, and if need be, pass every camp of 
the enemy on my way !" 

As extravagant as was this boast of the Frenchman, I have no 
doubt he would cheerfully have undertaken it, had he been so or- 
dered. 

At that anxious period, shortly previous to the decisive battle of 
Buena Tista, when the handful of volunteers left to garrison the 
city of Monterey were surrounded by more than ten times their own 
numbers, and when the dust of the enemy's columns was seen in 
every direction during the day, and through the night every hill top 
and mountain side was illuminated by their signal fires, it became 
necessary to convey important intelligence to the small command of 
Colonel Morgan, still occupying Serralvo, the half-way depot between 
Monterey and Comargo. 

But so vigilant were the enemy, and so closely had they beset the 
roads, that it was considered not only extremely hazardous, but al- 
most impossible, to open a communication with that post. 

The rangers in the place were offered large rewards to induce some 



138 



A TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 



one or more of tliem to undertake the perilous journey, but there 
were none among them who would run the gauntlet. Had Jean 
Bruno been at hand, the application would not have been made in 
vain. But that courageous man was absent at Saltillo, whither he 
had been sent with dispatches to General Taylor. 

The quartermaster now made a requisition upon the First Ohio 
Regiment, quartered in the plaza, and two young privates imme- 
diately volunteered to attempt the passage. 

The services of these brave fellows were gladly accepted, and pro- 
vided with excellent horses and well armed, they set forth upon their 
perilous ride. 

Scarcely, however, had the Ohioans left the plaza, when the fear- 
less and faithful Ranger, Jean Bruno himself, accompanied by a 
Mexican guide, galloped up to the commandant's quarters, with re- 
turn dispatches from head-quarters. 

As the officer had all confidence in the skill and experience of the 
J\ \ Frenchman, he hardly gave him time 

to dismount from his pant- 
ing steed, when, ordering a 
■•i^^^^i!W "^^^^^'^^^^S^f^^ '^l\ // fresh animal, he requested 

Jean to start forth- 




^y^ with, with a dupli- 
cate of the dis- 
patch that had been 
given to the Ohio- 

\t/\ ans. Ever ready to 

THE RANGER AND HIS OUIDE AFTER THE OHIO MEN. glVC a CheeriUi 006- 

dience to all orders, the Frenchman snatched a few mouthfuls of 
refreshment with his guide, and was soon again dashing, with him 
in company, out of the city. 



^ A TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 139^ 

It was his intention, if possible, to overtake the young men, who 
had preceded him, in order to ascertain what route they purposed to 
pursue ; as he had determined to follow a different path, in order 
that should one party fail, the other might possibly succeed in 
reaching their destination. Besides, the chances were that either 
would be more likely to pass the outposts of the enemy undiscovered, 
than if they united their numbers. 

Jean and his guide, however, had crossed the ford of Agua Frio 
without falling in with the Ohioans, who, in obedience to instruc- 
tions, had ridden rapidly, till past the first line of Mexican pickets. 

Beyond this stream, coming upon hard gravelly soil, Jean lost 
sight of their horses' tracks ; and under the guidance of his trusty 
and experienced companion left the main wagon road, and struck 
out into a narrow and rarely traveled mule trail, which leading 
directly across the mountains, would take them, by a nearer route to 
Serralvo. 

The distance was some seventy miles by the road, and twenty less 
by the mountain path ; and by this route the guide assured Jean, 
they would altogether avoid the pickets and scouts of the Mexicans. 

The two men had ridden but a few miles on the trail, when they 
came again upon the tracks of the Ohioans' horses. These were 
readily distinguished, from the fact that Mexican horses were never 
shod. It seems that the young men, who had frequently passed be- 
tween Monterey and Serralvo, had heard of this short cut, and had 
now taken it. ^-^v..,,.^^^ 

For hours the Frenchman and guide rode along ; now ascending 
some precipitous peak ; then winding slowly along the verge of some 
overhanging cliff; and anon galloping through some little grassy 
valley, watered by mountain streams, where they would rest for a 
few moments to refresh their animals upon the rich herbage. 



140 A TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 

At length night overtook the travelers still upon the mountain 
path ; and Jose, the guide, proposed that they should draw rein at a 
sheep rancho not far ahead, and await the return of day. Their 
route was dangerous in the obscurity, and Jean, unsuspicious of 
harm among the simple rancheros, consented. 

As they reached the place, which, with its range of substantial 
buildings, surrounded by a high adobe wall, had more the character 
of a hacienda of some wealthy proprietor, than an ordinary sheep 
farm, they found the gates shut, and all about the place apparently 
retired to sleep. 

After calling several times, and knocking upon the gate, they 
heard voices within, and then a light appeared at one of the un- 
glazed windows, soon after which they heard the removal of bars, 
and then the door being opened, they were invited, in a very friendly 
manner, to enter. 

They found themselves in a sort of court, within which were sev- 
eral horses, two of which, that appeared to have been freshly arrived, 
Jean had no doubt were American horses, and belonged to his 
friends, who had preceded him. 

On the threshold of the house, the travelers were met by an old 
Mexican, who with a hospitable smile, bid them a happy evening, 
and politely motioned them to enter. 

Returning the salutation, Jean inquired if two Americans had not 
recently arrived. 

" No," replied the Mexican, " we have seen no such persons, and 
they cannot have passed our place. Had they come, they would 
have been as welcome as yourselves, Senores." 

The fellow's manners were courteous. There was an appearance 
of respectability and even gentleness about him. The night without 
was dark, and threatening rain ; and leaving his horse to the care of 



A TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 



141 



the faithful guide, Jean, wishing that the Ohioans might have been 
as fortunate as himself, in obtaining shelter from the coming storm, 
entered the house with a feeling of much satisfaction. 

In the large room, where he seated himself, he found, besides his 
host, another Mexican, whose countenance was not of a very pre- 
possessing character ; but not much 
more forbidding than the dark 
skinned natives of his class usually 
are. Besides these persons, there 
was an old woman, who seemed to 
be the mistress of the house, 
and a rather pretty young /^ 
Senorita, to whom the 
Frenchman immediately 
directed his compliments. 
But the girl received his ad- 
vances with apparent indif- 1 
ference, and he observed ; 
that she frequently leaned 
her face upon her hands, for the love of god, senor, fly from this place. 
as though suffering from pain, or anxiety, and he fancied she occa- 
sionally looked upon him with an expression of uneasiness. 

As the express rider, like most of his countrymen in our army, 
had acquired a perfect knowledge of the Spanish, the old Mexican 
remarked that for an American he spoke their language remarkably 
well — equal, in fact to a Castilian. 

" I am no American," said he. 

" No American !" repeated the Mexican, with an expression of 
surprise ; " then what countryman are you, may I ask ?" 

" I am a Frenchman," replied Jean. 




142 A TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 

" Oh, then," was the answer, '' you are almost half Spaniard, But, 
if I am not much mistaken, you are here with those Americanos, 
after all !" 

There was a peculiar manner about his host, and a certain tone 
of voice, as he made this last remark, that caused a feeling of un- 
easiness in the mind of the Frenchman, and for a few moments he 
made no reply; and when at length he spoke, asserting that he was 
now temporarily in the employ of the Americans, he heard a sound, 
like a half suppressed sigh, from the young woman at his side. 

At this moment Jose returned from the stable, and approaching 
Jean, whispered : 

" I hope, Senor, these people are friendly ; but there is something 
about the place I don't like. The other buildings are full of suspi- 
cious looking fellows, who seem to me to be guerillas !" 

Startling as was this report, which in his own mind was corrobo- 
rated by the manners of the people in the house, and convinced the 
Frenchman that they had fallen into a trap, he preserved his pre- 
sence of mind ; and knowing it would be worse than folly to attempt 
to escape from the place by force, assumed a tranquil manner, and 
inquired of the people if they could supply himself and companion 
with supper 

While the women engaged themselves in preparation of the meal, 
Jean contrived to communicate with the guide, and directed him to 
keep a good eye upon the men without, while he watched the two 
men in the house. 

After a comfortable meal had been partaken of, the old woman 
and the two men withdrew, bidding our travelers a cheerful " good 
night," and calling upon them the guardianship of all the saints, 
while the girl remained behind for a moment, to direct them to their 
sleeping-place. 



A TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 143 

She led them to an inner apartment — a sort of lumber room — 
from which a rickety ladder led to an upper loft. 

" Up there, Senores," said she, in an audible voice, evidently in- 
tended for other ears as well as those of the strangers, " you will find 
vacant cots. Take those upon the right ; and do not, if you please, 
disturb the sleepers upon the other cots — they doubtless sleep 
soundly from fatigue, Muy buenos noches !" (very good night.) 
And then approaching her face to the ear of the Frenchman, she 
added, in a whisper : " For the love of God, Seiior, fly from this 
place ! Your life is in danger ! Wait till all is quiet, and escape 
from the window of the room. 

Of course, Jetin was now convinced that the suspicions of his guide 
were correct. The place, without doubt, was a rendezvous of guer- 
illas ; and his own life, and that of the ^lexican, his companion, was 
determined upon. However, without communicating his discovery 
to the man, he groped his way to the spot where the girl had directed 
him to find the cots, and seated himself upon one, while Jose took 
possession of the other. Jean now looked about the place, and in 
the obscurity found himself in a large attic room, devoted chiefly to 
the storage of maize, and saddles, and such rubbish as would 
naturally accumulate about a Mexican farm-house. At each end of 
the apartment was a small open window ; and by the dim light which 
struggled through them, he perceived two other cots, upon which 
two persons were lying, covered, face and all, with Mexican scrapes. 

There was something in the breathless repose of the sleepers that 
startled the Frenchman ; and cautiously approaching one of the cots, 
he stooped his head to the face of the occupant, and listened. Not 
a sound was heard— there was none of that heavy respiration peculiar 
to the wearied sleeper. By degrees his vision became accustomed 
to the obscurity, and raising a corner of the serape, his eye fell upon 



144 



TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 




the face of a corpse ! He immediately recognized it as that of one 
of the Ohioans. 

Horror-struck by the sight, he motioned Jose to his side, and 
stripping down the covering, exposed the bloody clothing of the 
mnrrlp^ed man. The Mexican would have uttered 
ui exclamation of alarm, had not the 
Frenchman placed his hand upon his mouth, 
and enjoined silence as their 
only chance of escape. 

They now examined the 
other bed. It also contained 
a murdered man — the other 
unfortunate Ohioan. The 
two young men had appa- 

THE TWO OHIO .1.S HAH BEEN STABBED TO THE '^^^^^7 "ICt dCath iu SleCp. 

HEART. They had been stabbed to 

the heart. After making this fearful discovery our travelers held a 
hasty consultation. Jean repeated the warning of the young woman, 
and directed Jose to examine one of the windows, while he inspected 
the other. That to which the Frenchman went looked upon the court, 
in which were their horses, and where several persons were moving 
about and speaking in whispers to each other. Jose's window looked 
upon the rear of the house, and out upon the broken rocks of the 
mountain side. But the distance to the ground on this side was 
great, too great to leap, but at the expense of broken bones. By 
way of the court the descent was easy enough, first up on the roof 
of a low outbuilding, and then by the projecting corners of the stone 
building to the ground. 

After a moment's hesitation, Jean determined to attempt this 
passage, even into the midst of the guerillas, who were within the 



A TEXAN ranger's FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 145 

court. For this purpose he examined his revolvers, loosened his 
sabre, and directed Jose to see also to his arms. He was about to 
let himself from the window when a noise at the other window at- 
tracted his attention. Stepping lightly across the floor, he peered 
out of this last, and perceived a pole leaning against the building, 
within reach of his hand. To this was attached a long lariat of raw- 
hide. There was evidently some friendly assistance below, and 
drawing the rope through the window, they were provided with a 
sure and safe means of descent. It was the work of a moment only 
to tie one end of this to one end of the rafters, and so drop cautiously 
to the ground. 

As Jean, who was first to descend, let himself from the window, 
he heard hurried voices in the room below ; and immediately several 
men made a rush for the attic ; the next instant a carbine shot was 
heard, followed by a cry of terror, and the body of poor Jose, who 
was that moment stepping from the window, fell with a crushing 
weight upon him, causing the Frenchman to lose his hold upon the 
rope and to fall to the ground. 

Though considerably injured by the fall, he did not lose his pre- 
sence of mind ; and regaining his feet, looked about him for the most 
practicable mode of escape. While thus reconnoitering the place, a 
dark object approached from the shadow of the building, and beck- 
oned him to follow. It was the girl who had given him warning of 
his danger. He was about to join her when the gate of the court 
suddenly opened, and supplied with lighted torches, a score of Mex- 
icans rushed out and surrounded the place. Jean found himself 
enclosed in the ring of eager ruffians, while the girl, pointing toward 
the side of the mountain, made good her own escape. 

" Death to the Maldito Americano V shouted the fierce robber 
gang, as they caught sight of the Frenchman, and rattled shot after 
10 



146 A TEXAN RANGEll'S FEARFUL ADVENTURE. 

shot among the loose stones and rubbish where he was endeavoring 
to secrete himself. 

Finding it impossible thus to elude his enemies, Jenn now deter- 
mined to cut his way through them. He drew his sabre, which he 
placed under his haudless arm ; and then with one of his revolvers 
charged upon the guerillas. They were well armed, and fought with 
a ferocious bravery. 

After discharging the six barrels of one revolver, each of which 
dispatched a Mexican, the fearless Frenchman had resort to his 
sabre ; and as his assailants gathered about him, 
he dealt his blows about him right and left, till, 
to use his own words, he " built a barricade of 
dead greasers about him." 

Finding the way now open 
to him, he made good his 
escape to the rocks, toward 
which the girl had directed 
him. But though now out 
of the lair of the robbers, he 
was far from being out of — ..-'-'^-^--j^'^'^'S — 

THE FEARLESS KAN(JEK CUTS HIS WAY THROUGH 

danger. He knew his en- the guerillas. 

emies would pursue him, and being familiar with the wild country, 

might easily track him out. 

Many and various were the hairbreadth escapes through which 
the brave ranger passed ere he made good his escape from the 
mountains ; for through that long night, and until he came within 
sight of the white walls of Serralvo, the guerillas, infuriated by the 
loss of their comrades, continued to pursue him ; and more than once 
they were almost within touching distance of him. At these times 
his fingers itched to press the trigger of his pistol upon them but 




THE GAMBLER S DEN AT NATCHEZ. 



147 



prudence dictated a better course ; and finally, when the day was 
nearly spent, exhausted with fatigue, hunger and excitement, he 
reached the camp of Colonel Morgan, and placed in his hands the 
dispatch with which he had been entrusted. 



THE GAMBLEE'S DEN" AT NATCHEZ. 

In the earlier days of steamboating in the West, the captains and 
pilots were men who had served their time and learned their trade 




THE ROPE BEGAN TO TIGHTEN AND THE HO0SE TO CREAK. 

upon broadhorns or keel boats, and a rough set they were. Almost 
born, and really educated updn the river, passing their days either 
in floating down stream, exposed to the various dangers of the 
voyage, or wearily working their boat up again in the face of the rapid 
current, liable at any time to be attacked by some one of the many 
gangs of robbers that infested all the region through which they 
passed, exposed to heat and cold, to snow and rain ; plying the oar 
by day and the whiskey bottle and fiddle bow by night, they formed 



148 THE gambler's den at NATCHEZ. 

a class strictly sui generis, and a devil-may-care, roystering, ready- 
handed, and open-hearted one at that. 

Many tales are told of the exploits of these old river dogs, and 
among them one of a certain Captain Russel, familiarly known as 
Dick Russel, who commanded the old Constellation in the palmy 
days of boating. 

Russel was a man of great strength — one of those minor Samsons 
that are occasionally encountered in this degenerate age— and his 
courage was in proportion to his muscular power. The boat which 
he commanded had stopped at Natchez, ** under the hill," for the 
night, and many of his passengers had gone on shore to see the fun 
going on among the various drinking, gambling and dancing houses 
that made up the town, such as it was. Now the said fun was never 
over decorous, seldom over safe, and one of the said passengers made 
both discoveries at his cost. lie was robbed of his pocket-book, 
which contained the proceeds of the sale of his flat boat and cargo. 

Early the next morning Russel was informed of the robbery, and 
sending for the loser requested all the particulars. 

Having satisfied himself that the money was realy, lost, and that, 
too, in a notorious house, immediately opposite the boat, on shore 
he went, and marching bold as a lion into the den of thieves, de- 
manded the pocket-book and contents of the proprietor. Of course 
the theft was denied, and the denial accompanied with many a threat 
of vengeance upon Russel, whose prowess, however, they were too 
well acquainted with to make any overt demonstration. 

"I'll give you," said Russel, "until I get my boat ready to go to 
hand over the money, and then if that don't come the house shall." 
True to his word, just before the boat started, on shore he went 
again, accompanied by a gang of deck hands, bearing the largest 
cable the steamer possessed. 



PERILOUS ADVENTURE OF CAPTAIN BRADY. 



149 



This was passed around the house and in and out some of the 
windows, and when all was ready Russel again demanded the book. 

No answer but curses being returned, he jumped on board the 
boat, sung out to the pilot to " go ahead," and to the engineer " to 
work her slow," and ofif the boat moved very moderately. 

The rope began to tighten, and the house to creak. Two min- 
utes more would have done the business for building and people, 
when the latter signified their surrender, and pitched pocket-book 
and money out of the window. 



PERILOUS ADVETNTTURE OP CAPTAIN BBADY. 

In the days when there were more red men than white in western' 
Pennsylvania, little parties, each under a favorite leader, were fre- 




BLADY MAKE OOOD JUMP ! BLADV MAKE VERY GOOD JUMP ! 



quently sent into the woods as rangers, to guard against surprise. 
One of these, commanded by Captain Samuel Brady, was sent into 
"French Creek country," in Butler county. On reaching the 



150 PERILOUS ADVENTURE OF CAPTAIN BRADY. 

waters of Slippery Rock, a branch of the Beaver, he discovered an 
Indian trail, and pursued it until dark. On the following morning, 
he recommenced the pursuit, and came up with the Indians just as 
they were finishing their morning meal and preparing to renew their 
journey. Placing his men in such a manner as to intercept them, 
should any attempt be made to escape, at a given signal they de- 
livered a close and well-directed volley, and started up to rush upon 
the enemy with their tomahawks, when a band in their rear, who 
were on Brady's trail, fired upon them in turn, taking them com- 
pletely by surprise, killing two of their number, and throwing the 
remainder into confusion. Finding himself thus between two fires, 
and vastly outnumbered, there was nothing left but flight; and 
Brady, directing his men to look out for themselves, started off at 
his topmost speed in the direction of the creek. 

The Indians had a long and heavy account to settle with him, and 
deemed this the opportunity to wipe it out with his blood. For this 
purpose they desired to secure him alive, and fifty redskins, regard- 
less of the others, who had scattered in every direction, dropped 
their rifles and followed him. The Indians knew the ground— Brady 
did not — and they felt secure of their victim when they saw him run 
toward the creek, which was at this point a wide, deep, and rapid 
stream. A yell of triumph broke from them as he arrived at the 
bank and comprehended his desperate situation. There was ap- 
parently no escape, and for a moment the captain felt that his time 
had come. 'Twas but for an instant, however ; he well knew the 
fate which awaited him, should he fall into the hands of his enemies ; 
and this reflection nerved him to a deed which, perhaps, in his 
calmer moments he would have found himself incapable of perform- 
ing. 

Gathering all his force into one mighty efi'ort as he approached 



PERILOUS ADVENTURE OF CAPTAIN BRADY. 151 

the brink of the stream, ^d clinging with a death grip to his trusty 
rifle, he sprang across the chasm through which the stream ran, 
and landed safely upon the other side, with his rifle in his hand. 
Quick as thought, his piece was primed, and he commenced to re- 
load. His feet had barely made their imprint in the soft, yielding 
soil of the western bank, before his place was filled by the brawny 
form of a warrior, who, having been foremost in the pursuit, now 
stood in wonder and amazement as he contemplated the gap over 
which the captain had passed. With a frankness which seemed not 
to undervalue the achievement of an enemy, the savage, in tolerable 
good English, exclaimed, '' Blady make good jump! Blady make 
very good jump !" His conflicting emotions of regret at the escape 
of his intended victim, and admiration of the deed by which that 
escape had been accomplished, did not hinder the discovery that 
Brady was engaged in loading his piece ; and he did not feel assured 
but that his compliment would be returned from the muzzle of the 
captain's rifle. He incontinently took to his heels as he discovered 
the latter ramming home the bullet, which might the next moment 
be searching out a vital part in his dusky form ; and his erratic 
movements showed that he entertained no mean idea of his enemy's 
skill at sharp-shooting. 

The outline of the most intricate field fortification would convey 
but a slight idea of the serpentine course he pursued, until 
satisfied that he was out of rifle shot. Sometimes leaping in the air, 
at others squatting suddenly on his haunches, and availing himself 
of every shelter, he evinced a lively fear, which doubtless had its 
origin in a previous knowledge of the fatal accuracy of the captain's 
aim. Brady had other views, however, and was not disposed to 
waste time and powder upon a single enemy, when surrounded by 
hundreds, and when the next moment an empty barrel might cost 



152 



DARING EXPLOITS OP GENERAL PUTNAM. 



him his life ; and while the savage was still displaying his agility on 
the opposite bank, he darted into the woods and made his way to a 
rendezvous previously fixed upon, where he met the remainder of his 
party, and they took their way for home, not more than half de- 
feated. It was not a great v»'hile before they were again on the war- 
path, in search of further adventures. 

Brady afterwards visited the spot, and, out of curiosity, he 
measured the stream at the place where he jumped, and found it to 
measure twenty-three feet from shore to shore, and the water he 
found to be twenty feet deep. 



DARIIJG EXPLOITS OF GENERAL PUTNAM. 

At one time, when General Putnam had command of the army in 
New York, he was visiting his outposts at West Greenwich, when 
Gov. Tryon, with a corps of fifteen 
hundred men, was on a march 
against it. Putnam had with him 
only one hundred and fifty men, with 
two pieces of artillery ; with them 
he took his station on the 
brow of a steep declivity, 
near the meeting house. 
The road turned to the north, 
just before it reached the 
edge of the steep ; after pro- 
ceeding in this direction ior general puiwam i.\ disguise at horse neck. 
a considerable distance, it inclined to the south, rendering the 
descent gradual and tolerably safe. 




DARING EXPLOITS OF GENERAL PUTNAM. 153 

As the British advanced, they were received with a sharp fire 
from the artillery ; but perceiving the dragoons about to charge, 
Putnam ordered his men to retire to a swamp, inaccessible to cavalry, 
while he himself dashed directly down the precipice, in a spot 
where one hundred stone steps had been cut out in the solid rock, for 
the accommodation of foot passengers. His pursuers, who were close 
upon him, paused with astouishment as they reached the edge, and 
saw him accomplish his perilous descent, and not one of them daring 
to follow, they discharged their pistols after him, one bullet of which 
passed through his hat. This wonderful feat has done more for the 
name of Putnam, than almost any other one act. The declivity, 
from this circumstance has since borne the name of "Putnam's 
Hill." 

Somewhere near the time the above exploit took place, the fol- 
lowing adventure was performed by General Putnam : The strong- 
hold of Horse Neck was in the possession of the British, and Put- 
nam, with a few followers, was lurking in its vicinity, bent on 
driving them from the place. Tired of lying in ambush, the men 
became impatient, and importuned the general with questions, as to 
when they were going to have a bout with the foe. One morning 
he made a speech, to the following effect, which convinced them 
that something was in the wind : — 

" Fellows ! you've been idle too long, and so have I. I'm going 
to Bush's at Horse Neck, in an hour, with an ox-team, and a load 
of corn. If I come back, I will let you know the particulars ; if I 
should not, let them have it 1" 

Within an hour he was mounted in his ox-cart, dressed as one 
of the commonest Yankee farmers," and was soon at the Bush's 
tavern, which was in possession of the British troops. No sooner did 
the ofi&cers espy him, than they began to question him as to his where- 



154 JOHN minter's fearful encounter with a bear. 

abouts, and finding him a complete simpleton, (as they thought,) 
began to quiz him, and threatened to seize his corn and fodder. 

" How much do you ask for your whole concern ?" asked they. 

"Inmarcy sake, gentlemen," replied the mock clod-hopper, with 
the most deplorable look of entreaty, " only let me off, and you shall 
have my hull team and load for nothing ; and if that won't dew, I'll 
give you my word, I'll return to-morrow^ and pay you heartily for 
your kindness and condescension." 

" Well," said they, " we'll take you at your word, leave the team 
and provender with us, and we won't require any bail for your ap- 
pearance." 

Putnam gave up the team, and sauntered about an hour or so 
gaining all the information that he wished ; he then returned to his 
men, and told them of the foe, and his plan of attack. 

The morning came, and with it sallied out the gallant band. The 
British were handled with rough hands, and when they surrendered 
to General Putnam, the clod-hopper sarcastically remarked, " Gentle- 
men, I have only kept my word. I told you I would call, and pay 
you for your kindness and condescension." 



JOHN MINTER'S FEARFUL ENCOUNTER WITH A BEAR. 

Some fifteen or twenty years ago, there lived in the state of Ohio 
a man by the name of John Minter. In his younger days he had 
been a great hunter, spending most of his time in the woods in pur- 
suit of game, and such was his proficiency with the rifle, that he 
seldom failed in bringing down the swift-footed deer, or the fleetest 
winged denizen of the air. He was celebrated for a terrible fight 
which he had on one occasion with a bear, in which he came so 



JOHN MINTER'S fearful ENCOUNTER WITH A BEAR. 155 



near losing his life, that his passion for hunting was changed to 
disgust, and giving up the use of the rifle, he turned his attention to 
agriculture. The circumstances of that fight, are as follows : — 

He had been out 



one day, as usual, 
with his rifle, in pur- 




l.NTEIl DREW HIS LONG KEEN HCNTI.Vfi KNIFE AND PREPARED FOR TH.fJ FATAL ENCOUNTER 
WHICH HE KNEW ML'ST ENSUE. 

suit of a flock of turkeys, but had been unsuccessful, and was return- 
ing home in a surly mood, when he came, rather unexpectedly, upon 
a large black bear, who seemed disposed to dispute his passage. 
Quick as thought, his piece was at his shoulder, and the bullet 
whizzed through the air, striking the bear full in the breast, and he 
fell to the ground — as Minter supposed — dead. Carefully reloading 
his rifle, not to throw away a chance, he approached the bear, and 
poked his nose with the muzzle, to see if any spark of life remained. 
Bruin was only " playing 'possum," as it seems, for with far more 
agility than could be anticipated of a beast who had a rifle ball 
through his body, he reared upon his hind feet and made at the 
hunter. Minter fired again, but in his haste and trepidation, arising 
from the sudden and unexpected attack, he failed to hit a vital part, 



156 JOHN minter's fearful encounter with a bear. 

aud a second wound only served to make the brute more savage and 
desperate. Drawing his tomahawk, he threw that ; and as the bear 
dodged it and sprang upon him, he clubbed his rifle and struck him 
a violent blow across the head with the butt, which resulted in 
shivering the stock, and, if possible, increasing his rage. Springing 
back to avoid the sweep of his terrible claws, Minter drew his long, 
keen hunting-knife, and prepared for the fatal encounter, which he 
knew must ensue. 

For a moment the combatants stood gazing at each other, like 
two experienced duelists, measuring each the other's strength. 
Minter was a man of powerful frame, and possessed of extraordinary 
muscular development, which, with his quick eye and ready hand, 
made him a very athletic and dangerous enemy. He stood six feet 
high, and was beautifully proportioned. The bear, a male of 
the largest size, and rendered desperate by his wounds, which were 
bleeding profusely, was a fearful adversary to encounter under any 
circumstances ; more particularly so to Minter, who now had simply 
his knife to depend upon, to decide the contest between them. 

As Bruin advanced to seize him, he made a powerful blow at his 
heart, which, had it taken effect, would have settled the matter at 
once ; but the other was too quick for him, and with a sweep of his 
tremendous paw, parried the blow, and sent the weapon whirling 
through the air to a distance of twenty feet ; the next instant the 
stalwart hunter was enfolded in the embrace of those fearful paws, 
and both were rolling on the ground in a death-like grapple. 

The woods were open, and free from underbrush to a considerable 
extent, and in their struggles they rolled about in every direction. 
The object of the bear was, of course, to hug his adversary to death, 
which the other endeavored to avoid by presenting his body in such 
a position as would best resist the vice-like squeeze, until he could 



JOHN MINTER'S fearful ENCOUNTER WITH A BEAR. 151 



loosen his grasp ; to accomplish which, he seized the bear by the 
throat with both hands, and exerted all his energy and muscular 
power to throttle him. This had the two-fold effect of preventing 
him from using his teeth, and compelling him to release the hug, to 
knock off the other's hands with his paws ; thus affording Minter an 
opportunity to catch his breath, and change his position. 

Several times he thought he should be crushed under the immense 
pressure to which he was subject ; but was buoyed up with the hope 
of reaching his knife, which lay within sight, and toward which he 
endeavored to fall every time they came to the ground. With the 
hot breath of the ferocious brute steaming in his face, and the blood 
from his own wounds mingling with that of the bear, and running to 
his heels ; his flesh terribly cut up and lacerated by his claws, he 
still continued to maintain the struggle against the fearful odds, 
until he was enabled to reach the weapon, which he grasped with joy, 
and clung to with the tenacity of a death- ^^^^^^ ^p^^ -^ 
grip. With his little remaining strength, ^^^^^ 
and at every opportunity between the tre- 
mendous hugs, he plied the knife ^JJI 
until the bear showed evident signs ^^*» 
of weakness, and finally bled to 
death from the numerous wounds 
from whence flowed, in copious 
streams, his warm life's blood, 
staining the leaves and greensward 
of a crimson hue. 

Releasing himself from the em- 
brace of the now inanimate brute, Minter crawled to a decaying 
stump, against which he leaned, and surveyed the scene. His heart 
sickened as he contemplated his own person. He had gone into the 




158 THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS. 

battle with a stout, heavy hunting shirt, and underclothing ; with 
buck-skin leggins and moccasins ; and had come out of it with 
scarcely a rag upon him, except the belt around his waist, which 
still held a few strips of tattered cloth, and a moccasin on one foot. 
His body, from his neck to his heels, was covered with great gaping 
wounds, many of which penetrated to the bone, and the blood was 
flowing in torrents to the ground, covering him with gore from head 
to foot. For a space of more than half an acre, the ground was 
torn up, and had the appearance of a butcher's shambles. 

As soon as he had recovered his breath, he commenced to crawl 
toward his home, where he arrived after night-fall, looking more 
like a slaughtered beef than a human being. His wounds were 
dressed by his family and friends, and after being confined to his bed 
for many weeks, thanks to his healthy, rugged constitution, he en- 
tirely recovered ; but he bore to his grave the marks of his terrible 
contest, in numerous cicatrices and welts which covered his back, 
arms and legs, where the bear's claws had left ineffaceable marks of 
his strength and ferocity. 



THE MASSACBB AT FORT MIMMS. AN INCIDENT 
OF THE CREEK WAR. 

Soon after the commencement of the war of 1812, that wonderful 
man, Tecumseh, the greatest warrior and orator ever produced in 
savage life, left his home in the North, and suddenly appeared 
among the half-civilized tribes of the South, whom, with that natural 
and fiery eloquence of which he was master, he upbraided for their ef- 
feminate pusillanimity, their degenerate civilization, counseling them 
to be warriors and men, and not women, to throw off the pale-face 
garments that disgraced them, resume their original costume, dig 



THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS. 



159 



up the hatchet, declare eternal war against the Americans, and 
once more become sons worthy of their brave and noble sires. 

The fiery eloquence of Tecumseh was not lost upon his red 
brothers, and upon none was it more effective than the Creeks. It did 
not result in immediate hos- 
tility, but it was seed sown 
in productive soil; and 
though the more wise and 
prudent rejected his fanati- 
cal counsel, a large portion 
received it as inspired lan- 
guage from the lips of a 
prophet. To this was soon 
added the tampering of Brit- 
ish agents with the Creeks 
and Seminoles residing in 
the territory owned by Spain. 
At the town of Pensacola, firearms and various other presents were 
freely distributed among all the Indians who could be induced 
to assemble there to receive them, and they were urged to declare 
immediate war against the United States, and get as many to assist ^ 
them as possible. All this led the bolder and more warlike spirits 
to become dissatisfied with their hitherto peaceful mode of life, and 
in the end resulted in a terrible and bloody uprising. 

Some fearful indications of this newly-awakened hostility soon 
became manifest along the borders ; small parties of soldiers were 
attacked, houses were here and there burned, and men, women, and 
children butchered. In view of these fresh troubles, the gover- 
nors of Georgia and Tennessee were required by the Federal Gov- 
ernment to arm their militia, and General Jackson was ordered to 




FORT MIMMS. 



160 



THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS. 




march with two thousand men, and put down the insurrection. He 
proceeded through the Choctaw and Chickasaw country as far as 
Natchez, when, finding all quiet, he returned with his army to the 
North. 

But no sooner had General Jackson left the country, than the 
same aggressive acts were resumed in a bolder manner. A 
r^^-i^ few of the Indians, who remained 

^'7, friendly to the United States, 
were assailed by the furious war- 
party, and bloody contests re- 
sulted among themselves ; negroes 
were incited to rise against their 
masters and join the insurgents ; 
the whole immediate country be- 
came a scene of the wildest alarm, 
and such of the settlers as could 
not escape to the northward, deserted their plantations, collected 
together, and immediately erected and established themselves in 
forts. Several of these were constructed on the Mobile and its dif- 
ferent branches, but unfortunately too far apart, to be of any assist- 
ance to each other in a time of peril. 

To one of these, Fort Mimms, we will now direct attention, and 
attempt to give some faint idea of the horrid scene which was there 
enacted. The story was told some years ago to a friend of ours, by 
one of the survivors, and we repeat it as nearly in the language of 
the narrator as we have been able to gather it. 

" Our fort," said the narrator, " was a rude affair, built after the 
manner of the wilderness, and consisted of log-cabins and stockades, 
with a large area in the centre. Within this enclosure— of families 
and volunteers, men, women, and children, black and white — were 



<- .^^^^ 



ON THE WATCH. 



THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS. 161 

collected something like three hundred souls. The garrison, about a 
hundred strong, was commanded by Major Beasly, a brave and 
noble officer, but an imprudent one withal, arising from an over- 
confidence in his own resources and a contempt for the foe. 

" Various rumors reached us, from time to time, that the Indians 
were preparing to attack the different stations throughout the coun- 
try. This at first created no little excitement and alarm in our 
community, and the major went so far as to make a few repairs and 
double the guard at night ; but as time passed on, and no Indians 
appeared, even the timid and cautious began to grow more indiffer- 
ent than was prudent for a people situated as we were. 

" One day, toward the latter part of August, a messenger arrived, 
saying the Creeks were abroad in great force, that they had fully 
declared war against the United States, and were about to attempt 
the taking of all the stations in detail, beginning with Fort Mimms. 

"'We have heard just the same report more than once before,' 
replied Major Beasly, ' and yet not a savage has ventured to show 
himself in our vicinity.' 

" ' Their scouts have been here and reconnoitered the place when 
you little dreamed of it,' rejoined the messenger, ' and I tell you they 
are now on their way here to attack you.' 

" ' Have you seen them ?' 

" ' Not myself, but my information is none the less reliable.' 

" ' Very well, sir, we will see to it,' was the closing answer of the 
major. 

"The news of the messenger created fresh alarm among the 
women and children; and a few of the garrison, myself among the 
number, thought our commander made too light of even a possible 
danger, considering how many helpless beings there were under his 
charge, who might fall victims to the slightest neglect; but the 
11 



162 



THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS. 



majority of the men thought with Beasly, that if even the report of 
the Indians being abroad in great numbers was true, they would not 
attack a place where they would be so certain to be repulsed with 
great slaughter. Our post was considered impregnable to any mere 
savage assault, and our overweening confidence in our fancied 
strength became the weakness by which we fell. 

"The fatal thirtieth of August, 1813— ah ! never shall I forget it ! 
It was about the hour of noon, of a hot sultry day, and I was sitting 
in the shade of the houses, playing with a little curly-haired boy, my 
musket leaning against the palisades a few yards distant, when sud- 

--^ . denly the sentinel fired his 

piece, and shouted : 

"'To arms! to arms! 




==? the Indians are u 



p<iu us 



*' Groups of men, who 
were lounging about, in- 
stantly sprang to their 
1 r e t , grasped their 
\v capons, and made a rush 
"TO arms! TO ARMS! THE INDIANS All. ipox us!' to the gate, wMch Imd 
carelessly been left wide open for the purpose of allowing persons to 
pass in and out at their convenience. At the same moment a large 
body of Indians bounded forward, with the most appalling yells, and 
poured in a destructive volley. Several fell dead, and many others 
were severely wounded. We returned the fire — those of us who 
had been able to seize our muskets and get first to the defence— and 
numbers of the dusky foe were sent howling to the dust. Then 
began a most terrible fight and slaughter on both sides. The 
Indians, in a large compact body, were crowding forward to force 
their way in through the open gate, and we were striving to drive 



THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMIMS. 163 

them back and shut them out. It was a hand-to-hand encounter, 
in which every sort of weapon was used. We stabbed them with 
bayonets, cut them with knives, knocked them down with muskets 
and bludgeons, and split open their skulls with axes. They fought 
in the same manner, with a tiger-like ferocity, and with about equal 
success. Our yells and theirs njingled, as we grappled in the work 
of death, and white friend and dusky foe soon strewed the earth 
around, locked in a last bloody embrace. 

" At length a body rushed past us and took possession of one of the 
block-houses ; and as this somewhat thinned the immediate crowd at 
the gate, we were enabled, by redoubled exertions, to close and 
secure it. This gave us a momentary respite, and one we greatly 
needed, for our terrible exertions had nearly overcome us. For a 
minute I stood leaning against one of the palisades, panting and 
scarcely able to stand. I had received no serious nijury, but I was 
much cut and bruised, and covered with blood from head to foot. 
Before me was a horrible and sickening sight. Not less than ten of 
my comrades, and some fifteen savages, lay dead within a space of 
twenty feet square, with cloven skulls, glaring, death-glazed eyes, 
and bloody, distorted visages ; while all around were wounded and 
dying men, whose deep groans and maddening shrieks were awful to 
hear. Among these was Major Beasly, who, in gallantly attempt- 
ing to repair his error, had fallen mortally wounded, and would com- 
mand us no more. A large number of women, with the wildest cries 
of distress and woe, now came rushing forth from the cabins, in search 
of fathers, sons, husbands and brothers; and as fast as they could, 
they bore away their friends, the wounded, dying and dead, with 
lamentations that pierced the heart and rent the air. It was an 
awful scene ; but there was one more awful yet to come. 

"The Indians without the fort now rushed forward in a body, and 



164 THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS. 

poured a murderous fire through the loop-holes, by which a number 
of both sexes was killed and wounded. We now charged upon the 
loop-holes, forced back the enemy, and gave him a galling fire in 
return. As soon as the savages could reload their weapons, they 
rallied and again charged upon the fort, and we in turn were obliged 
to give way. This species of warfare was continued for more than an 
hour, numbers falling on both sides. Meantime, from one of the block- 
houses, a destructive fire was being poured upon the assailants, and 
in the other a most fearful struggle was taking place. The Indians 
who had rushed past us at the gate, had taken possession of this, 
and it was necessary to dislodge them. This could only be accom- 
plished by a close and deadly encounter, during which so many fell 
on both sides that the place literally ran with blood like a slaughter- 
house. At length it was carried over the dead bodies of every 
Indian in it, and the guns turned upon the foe without, who now for 
the first time fell back in dismay. This again gave us a little re- 
spite, which we employed in putting to death every savage within 
the walls. 

" We now began to indulge the hope that the Indians, being so 
signally repulsed, would withdraw altogether ; but in this we were 
terribly disappointed. Their bold and sanguinary chief, one Wea- 
therford by name, collected, harangued, and urged them to a renewal 
of the contest, promising them success. He told them they had 
come to the assault numbering two to one of all the fort contained, 
counting men, women, and children; and if they did not carry it, 
and avenge the death of their companions, by an utter extermina- 
tion of the whites, they would be forever disgraced, and be pointed 
at by even squaws as cowards unfit to live. His words roused in 
them the most vindictive fury ; and procuring axes, they returned to 
the attack with all the ferocity of demons. 



THE MASSACRE AT FORT MIMMS. 



165 




WE NOW, INDEED, FELT THAT OUR 
DOOM WAS SEALED. 



" Our first knowledge of this fresli assault filled us with the most 
heart-sickening dismay. With the most appalling yells, a large 
body rushed to the gate and began to hew it down, the immediate 
assailants being covered by another 
large body of sharpshooters, who, con- 
cealing themselves behind every avail- 
able breastwork, kept up a steady fire 
upon the loopholes. We now, indeed, 
felt that our doom was sealed ; but 
being determined to sell our lives 
dearly, we ordered the women into the ZjHp 
cabins, and returned boldly to the 
defence, doing all that men in our 
situation could do. 

" Alas ! of what avail ? One by one our ranks were thinned, till at 
length the gate gave way with a crash, and with the wildest yells of 
triumph, the dusky horde came pouring into the area. Our only 
alternative Vv'as now to rush into the cabins, make a last stand, and 
die with the women and children, for no one had any hope of escape. 

"The doors were thrown open by the terrified watchers of the 
strife, and most of the then living garrison succeeded in passing in and 
closing them ; but several were overtaken, and either tomahawked or 
shot at the very thresholds. Two companions entered the same 
apartment with myself, and in there was a sight that at any less fear- 
ful time would have made our hearts ache. A wife lay in a swoon 
by the dead body of her husband ; a prattling child had a hand of 
the bloody corpse, and was trying to make it speak ; a trembling old 
man, with white hair, was kneeling on the ground and sobbing, with 
bowed head ; there were women flying to and fro in a distracted 
state, wringing their hands, crying and shrieking; and there were 
two or three wounded men, groaning and dyiog. 



166 MOODY, THE JERSEY REFUGEE. 

" But to all these we gave little heed. Our work was still to fight 
to the last, and die with the rest ; and we began to load and fire 
through the windows upon the savages, who, with yells of exultation, 
were now busy killing the wounded and tearing the reeking scalps 
from all. 

" I know not how long it was after this before the appalling cry of 
fire arose. Our foes had succeeded in setting the roofs in a blaze, 
and now began to beat in the doors. Then such a shriek of horror 
as rent the air from the lips of women and children ! Oh, merciful 
God ! it was terrible beyond description ! Even imagination sinks 
before it. It was paralyzing. 

*' How I got to the burning roof I scarcely know ; but I remember 
the flames of fire playing about me, of bursting through them, of 
leaping to the ground, of running to the wood, of stopping my ears 
against the shrieks behind ! I escaped, but God only knows how. 
Sixteen others miraculously escaped also. All the rest perished, 
either in the flames or by the hands of their savage butchers. It 
was a massacre almost without a parallel. The blackened ruins of 
Fort Mimms held the bones of nearly three hundred victims of savage 
ferocity !" 



MOODY, THE JERSEY HEPUGEE. 

In about the central part of Sussex County, New Jersey, two miles 
south of the village of Newton, the county seat, are tv»'0 ponds or 
bodies of water, which go by the name of the "Big" and "Little 
Muckshaw." The lower or Little Muckshaw, loses itself at its 
western extremity in a marsh or swamp, which is almost impassable, 
except after a long drought. This vicinity possesses some consider- 
able interest, from having been the haunt of one of those fiends in 



MOODY, THE JERSEY REFUGEE. 



16t 



human shape, who preyed upon the substance of the patriotic citizens 
of the neighborhood during that dark and gloomy period in our 
Revolutionary contest, when even the Father of his country was 
wrapped in despondency at the gloomy prospect for the future. 

Bonnel Moody was a ruffian of the deepest dye, and possessed of 
all those qualities which constitute an accomplished freebooter and 




-^"^ > highwayman. He was shrewd, cunning, 

^ — "^/''iJCt^^' ^"^ artful as a fox ; energetic and determined 
,J :, !/'r ^^- 

t-^ ^ — in the pursuit of an object ; void of all pity or 



^^ 



remorse ; avaricious as a miser ; and with a brute courage that made 
him formidable in combat ; he was a dangerous enemy in the midst 
of the inhabitants of Sussex County, as they learned to their cost 
during the war. 

His place of retreat, or rather his lair— for it was more like the 
haunt ot some wild beast than the abode of human beings — was on 
the west side of the swamp above mentioned, where nature seemed 
to have provided him with a retreat more impregnable than art could 
possibly have furnished him withput her aid. A point of land pro- 



168 MOODY, THE JERSEY REFUGEE. 

jects into the western side of ttie marsh, affording only a very 
narrow and difficult foothold for one man to pass between its base 
and an inlet of the pond which washes the foot of the rocks. The 
ledge then recedes in the shape of a crescent, forming a little cove, 
with water in front and rocks behind and above. About forty-five 
yards from this point is a huge rock, sheltered and screened by over- 
hanging trees and shrubs, in which is a cavern, where Moody and 
his gang of marauders found shelter and retreat when their deeds of 
rapine and murder had roused the inhabitants of the vicinity to rid 
themselves of the dangerous foe. This cavern is eighteen feet high 
in front, gradually receding until it meets the foundation at a dis- 
tance of fifteen feet, and about fifty feet in length from north to 
south. 

Beyond this cavern the ledge again approaches the marsh, into 
which it projects, forming an elbow almost impossible to pass 
around, and on the opposite side it again recedes, presenting a bold 
and rugged aspect, heightened by the gloom of perpetual shade, 
numerous cavern-like fissures, and masses of rock which have fallen 
from time to time from the overhanging ledge. One of these is a 
large flat slab, about ten feet long, six high, and between three and 
four feet thick, which has fallen in such a position as to leave a pas- 
sage behind it of about a yard in width. The rocks above project 
over this slab, so as to shield it effectually from that quarter, and a 
half dozen men might defend themselves behind this natural buckler 
against the attack of an army. 

Such was the haunt of Moody and his congenial band of tory cut- 
throats and murderers; and from here like a flock of ravenous 
wolves would they issue, when opportunity offered, and lay waste 
and destroy all within their reach until danger threatened, when 
they would retreat to this natural fastness with their ill-gotten 



MOODY, THE JERSEY REFUGEE. 169 

plunder, here to divide and secrete it. From the brow of the ledge, 
which rises nearly a hundred feet from the water, they had a fair 
view of every avenue to their hiding place, and no one ever ap- 
proached it alive except Moody and his associates, or perhaps some 
friend of theirs with provision or information. There were those so 
lost to principle as to furnish this crew of land-pirates with the 
necessities of life, and with accurate intelligence of every movement 
on the part of the Americans which occurred in their vicinity. Sev- 
eral attempts to capture the wretch were frustrated by these loyal 
friends. 

At one time, when a party, having tracked him for some distance, 
were about to spring upon him, he was alarmed by a negro in time 
to make his escape ; and on another occasion a young woman 
mounted a horse and rode some twelve or fourteen miles, of a dark 
night, to warn him of a projected attack by a party of whigs, who 
had determined to capture him at all hazards. One cold winter 
night he broke into the house of a Mr. Ogden, and after robbing it 
of every thing of any value, he took the old man out in the yard, and 
made him take an oath not to make known his visit until a sufficient 
time had elapsed for himself and his party to make their escape. 
Two or three men who were working for Mr. Ogden, and who slept 
in a loft upstairs, not feeling bound by the old man's oath, alarmed 
the neighborhood and commenced a pursuit. Their track was easily 
followed in the snow, and in the morning they came upon a camp 
where the marauders had slept over night, and where their fires were 
still burning. The chase was kept up until they reached Goshen, in 
the state of New York, where they recovered part of the plunder, 
but the rascals escaped. These expeditions in pursuit of the tory 
wretch were called "Moody-hunting," and were followed up fre- 
quently with great determination and energy. 



IIO 



MOODY, THE JERi^EY HEFUQEE. 



One night, about twelve o'clock, he made his appearance at the 
bedside of the jailor, and demanded the key of the jail. The poor 
frightened ofiBcial readily gave it up — although he had often declared 
that he would not surrender it to him — and with it Moody opened 
the doors and set all the prisoners free. Two of them were con- 
demned to death — one, who was condemned to die for robbery, being 
unacquainted with the neighborhood, wandered about all night and 
next day in the woods, and was discovered in a hollow tree the next 
evening by a party of '' coon hunters," who brought him back ; and 
he was subsequently hung in front of the jail, protesting his innocence 
to the last. He was subsequently proved to be guiltless of the crime 
for which he suffered ; and the wretch who actually committed the 
deed, confessed on his death-bed that he it was who did the act for 
which another had suffered. On this occasion. Moody was more 
just than the law, and the prisoner's cause better than his fortune. 

While the American army was encamped at Morristowu, a man 
very shabbily dressed, and mounted on a brokeu-dowu nag, all of 
X^ whose '■'points''' were exhibited to the fullest 
extent, was seen one day to enter the camp, 
^^^p and pass leisurely through it, scrutinizing 
^^ J every thing as he went ; and although he 
assumed a perfect nonchalance, and was to 
-^ all appearance a simple-hearted 
and rather soft-headed country 

^ - farmer, yet there was something 

vw..^^^^^^^ jj^ j^jg manner which attracted the 

^^^ attention of an officer, who was 

drilling a squad of recruits in the 

DOOM OF THE RKFCflEE. * ^ 

open air. One of these thought there was something about the face 
which he recognized, and told his officer so. One of the squad was 




THE WHITE HORSEMAN. 171 

moimted and ordered to bring him back. Moody — for it was he who 
had thus boldly entered the American lines, and reconnoitered their 
ranks — shot him dead as he came up, and secreted the body by the 
side of the road. Another being sent to assist the first, Moody 
secreted himself in the woods and escaped. 

Having been driven from his former haunts by the untiring activity 
of the whigs, and being too well known to venture much abroad, he 
determined to join the British army in New York. While attempting 
to cross to the city with a companion in an open boat, they were 
captured, brought back to Morristown, and hung as traitors and 
spies. Moody was said to have come from Kingwood township, 
Hunterdon County, and was employed by the British to obtain re- 
cruits in New Jersey among the tory inhabitants ; act as a spy upon 
the Americans ; and by his maraudings to keep the inhabitants so 
busy at home as to prevent their joining or aiding the American 
army. 



THE WHITE HORSEMAK". 

The bell of the meeting-house at Lexington, rang out loud and 
shrill on that clear frosty morning in April, 1775, startling from his 
slumbers the hardy yoeman, who, as he leaped from his pallet and en- 
deavored to rouse his dormant faculties, was not long in conjec- 
turing the meaning of those untimely sounds. Ding, dong, ding, 
dong; how they thrilled along the nerves of the half-awakened 
sleeper, as he tried to peer from his window into the gloom of the 
incipient day. And as those soul-stirring sounds echoed and rever- 
berated through the chilling atmosphere, one and another household 
was awakened, and soon glow-worm tapers might be seen flitting to 
and fro, until every house within reach of those reverberations gave 
token of wakefulness and activity. 



172 



THE WHITE HORSEMAN. 



Anon, as the first gray of the coming morning stole over the pic- 
ture, groups and squads of armed and unarmed men appeared, all hur- 
rying toward the point whence came the warning voice of the old bell 




DEATH 0\ THE PALE HORSE. 



as it continued its 
call to arms. There 
was no hesitation, no 
halting in the step of those who gathered around the person of Capt. 
Parker, to learn the import of those thrilling clarion notes. Every 
man capable of bearing arms had been enrolled in the bands of the 
*' minute men," and the presence of one hundred men about the 
doors of that old church, gave token how well they deserved the 
title. "What's the matter, Cap'n? what's the matter?" was the 
query of each as he arrived on the ground, and all were answered 
alike ; '' The British are on the way to Concord to capture the stores, 
and we must lot 'em know that they ain't going to have 'em without 
a brush.'" 

There was, to the Americans, something cruel in the idea of being 
deprived, by force, of the very humble means of defense which they 
had been able after great exertions to collect, and, although the 



THE WHITE HORSEMAN. ItS 

determination to fight had not as yet been fully formed, yet every 
man saw at once but two alternatives ; the loss of their stores, or 
bloodshed. The first they were not prepared to put up with, and 
the only course was to defend them. Still they, one and all, deter- 
mined not to take the initiative, but let the haughty Britons bear the 
responsibility of firing the first shot. 

They had not long to wait. The tramp of the British soldiers 
was soon heard on the road, and in a few moments the head of the 
column appeared in sight. The ofiicer at the head, ordering two 
companies from column into line, rode forward, flourished his sword, 
and ordered the d — d rebels to disperse. But they, notwithstanding 
the immensely superior force, did not at once obey, and the troops 
were ordered to fire. The first volley, which killed four Americans, 
was returned, and then Capt. Parker ordered every man to " take 
care of himself and fight on his own hook." Having sworn that he 
" never would run from the British," the captain continued to load 
and fire his piece until he was wounded. Dropping on his knees, he 
still continued his warfare until he was bayoneted in his tracks. 

The whole of the scene described took place in full view of an old 
man named Hezekiah Wyman, a window in whose house overlooked 
the ground. Hezekiah was nearly eighty, and had been deemed too 
old to be enrolled in the bands of the minute men, but he soon gave 
evidence of a spirit which led him to perform deeds of valor un- 
equaled by any during the day. 

" Wife," said he, turning to his aged partner, who had turned from 
the window horror-struck when the first volley was fired, and it 
became evident there was to be a contest ; " Wife, isn't there an old 
gun barrel somewhere up garret?" "I believe there was, but what 
on earth, husband, do you want of a gun, you ain't going to fight the 
British, are you ? Massy souls," continued she. seeing her husband 



It4 THE WHITE HORSEMAN. 

moving toward the stairs, "what can you do with a gnn, an old man 
like you, eighty last November ; I should think you had seen enough 
of fighting already. There lies Capt. Parker and his men bleeding 
on the ground before your eyes." 

The old man made no reply, but proceeded up stairs, and soon 
returned with an old rusty gun barrel in his hands, and in spite of 
his wife's incessant din, he went to the shop, and, having stocked it, 
put it in complete order for use. He then saddled his horse, a tall, 
raw-boned animal, white as the snow, and mounted him. Telling 
his wife to take good care of the house, he gave his horse the whip, 
and took his way toward Concord. He soon met the British on the 
retreat, and was not long in perceiving that there was a wasp's nest 
about their ears. Determined to do his part, he dashed forward and 
delivered the contents of his gun full in the face of the soldiers on 
the extreme left, and reining back his steed to reload, he dealt a 
second death with his never-failing bullet. 

The tall, gaunt form of the assailant, his gray hairs floating in the 
breeze, and, above all, the color of his horse, made him conspicuous 
among the crowds of Americans which now hovered on the British 
flanks, and the regulars gave him the cognomen of " Death on the 
pale horse." Innumerable bullets flew about his head as he made 
his first assault, but undismayed, the old patriot continued to appear 
and disappear first on one flank then on the other, and again in the 
rear, dealing death among the "Red coats," until a vigorous charge 
of bayonets drove him and others back. He had by this time, how- 
ever, run short of ammunition, and was obliged to pick up some 
along the road from the boxes of those who had fallen. 

He soon appeared again, and an officer yielded his life to the 
summons of that old rusty home-made firelock, ere he was again 
driven off. But ever and anon the old horse and his rider could be 



THE WHITE HORSEMAN. 



175 



seen throiigli the smoke, and the report of that old gun was the 
death knell to one of his enemies. Thus did he continue his work 
until Earl Percy arrived with reinforcements for the British, and 
with the aid of artillery drove the Americans back, and held them in 
check while the harassed corps of Col. Smith could rest and refresh. 
No sooner were they on their way again, however, than the old 
yankee was seen cantering at full speed over the hills, gun in hand, 
ready for another shot. 

" Here comes * Death on the pale horse' again," exclaimed the 
regula' s ; " look out for yourselves, for one q£ us has got to die in 
spite of fate !" And one of them did 
die, for Hezekiah did not believe in 
^/T^ wasting powder and ball, when such 
if=.L=^i[ large game was afoot. 

Throughout that long and bloody 
march from Lexington to 
Charlestown, the appearance 
of the White Horseman was 
IP dreaded by the trained troops 
"^ ^^^ - ■ —^ ^^^ . — of Britain, for every wound 
made by Hezekiah was fatal. 




THE OLD MAN S RETURN FROM HIS CHERRY PICK- 



ING TRIP. Even after they had entered 

Charlestown, his white steed would make its appearance from be- 
hind a barn, house, or other convenient shelter, and every crack of 
his piece sent a British soldier to his long account. Even to their 
tents on Bunker's Hill, Hezekiah followed them, and then finding 
no more opportunities he reluctantly turned his horse's head home- 
ward, and reached his house unharmed, and took his seat at his 
accustomed evening meal, which had awaited his coming, as though 
nothing unusual had happened. 



176 



BLACK DICK AND THE LYNCHERS. 



"For gooduess sake, husband," was his wife's first salutation, 
where have you been ! what have you been doing ?" 
" Picking cherries,'' replied he ; " picking cherries." 



BLACK DICK AETD THE LYNCHERS-A FEARFUL MIS- 
SISSIPPI TRAGEDY. 

The small city of Grand Gulf, in Mississippi, was, on a certain 
Saturday night in May, 1848, a scene of the greatest alarm and ex- 
citement. A most 
brutal, and, as it was 'Ullii .1 I vJ 




BI,ACK DICK ASSAULTING GREENE, HIS MASTER. 

supposed at the time, a double murder, had been committed by a 
notorious negro, named Dick. He was a man of great muscular 
power, activity, and resolution, and but for his uncontrollable temper 
and savage disposition, would have been of great value to any master. 
A gentleman named Taylor originally owned him, and although a 
person of great strength and courage, found much difiBculty in keep- 
ing the refractory slave in subjection. At times he would run away. 



BLACK DICK AND THE LYNCHERS. lit 

and remain for days in the bush, and no one save his master cared to 
seek him. Mr. Taylor informed me that upon one occasion, when he 
came upon Dick unperceived by him, the fellow had a long knife in 
his hand, with which he was butchering, in imagmation, all of those 
who had incurred his displeasure ; and his recollection of causes of 
offense muit have been very accurate, and the list of offenders a long 
one, to judge of the number of those over whose ideal slaughter he 
was gloating. It is said, that when the idea of committing murder 
once fairly enters a man's brain, it never again abandons possession, 
but haunts him like a demon, urging him on, like the air-drawn 
dagger of the Thane. And so it proved with Dick. 

A man named Greene, who owned a small " force," was engaged 
in the brick-making business, and, envying Taylor the possession of 
so valuable a man as Dick, endeavored to purchase him. For a long 
time Taylor refused, telling Greene honestly, that Dick was a very 
troublesome negro, one that could be kept in order only by an 
owner that he feared, and that he (Greene) had neither the physical 
ability nor the resolution to conquer him. 

At length, wearied with Greene's pertinacity, Taylor set a price 
upon his man, so exorbitant indeed that he had no idea of its being 
paid ; but Greene quickly closed the bargain, purchasing, at the same 
time, a tyrannical master and his own death-warrant. 

As soon as Dick was released from Taylor's control, he gave free 
vent to his natural disposition, and in a very short time inspired his 
master, his overseer, and in fact every one upon the plantation, with 
such fear, that he became virtually the master of the place. His 
owner did not dare to punish him, nor did he think it at all safe to 
hint of selling him ; and things went from bad to worse, until finally 
a tragedy was enacted, sufficiently bloody to gratify even the morbid 
tastes of the readers of Reynolds's school of novels. 
12 



178 BLACK DICK AND THlfi LYNCHERS. 

Greene, returning to the house very early on the above mentioned 
Saturday, and feeling quite unwell, ordered Dick's wife, a house 
servant, to make him a cup of tea. He then threw himself upon the 
bed, and had nearly fallen asleep, when a loud noise in the kitchen, 
shrieks, and cries of murder, aroused him. A negro-boy rushed 
into the room, and begged him to come into the kitchen alid prevent 
Dick from murdering his wife. 

Greene sprang from the bed, and without stopping to dress, ran 
into the kitchen, where he found that Dick had knocked down the 
.woman Maria with a flat-iron, for no other reason than because he 
had ordered her to iron a vest for him immediately, as he wanted to 
go to a ball, and she replied that she would do so as soon as she had 
prepared a cup of tea for her master, but could not before. 

Before Greene could interpose cither remonstrance or force, Dick 
— whose blood was up — seized him by the throat. Greene endeav- 
ored to retreat, and succeeded in making his way to his bed-room ; 
Dick still clinging to him. In this room two loaded guns leaned 
against the wall ; but before Greene could possess himself of either, 
Dick, who yet held him by the throat, fired two pistols at his head, 
— strange to say, without any other effect than breaking the glass 
of a window behind them. 

Releasing his clasp of Greene's throat, Dick now seized him by the 
hair ; drew him out of the room, across the piazza, and into the grass 
plot in front of the cottage, and in less time than the description of 
the deed occupies, cut him literally to pieces ; inflicting seven wounds 
that would either of them have been mortal, and hacking and scar- 
ring the body all over. 

The plantation negroes were all present, but offered no assistance 
to their master. As soon as they recovered from their paralysis of 
fear they ran and hid themselve? in the woods. 



BLACK DICK AND THE LYNCHERS. 



179 



When Dick had satisfied himself that his master was done for, 
with his bloody knife in his bloody hand, he rushed out of the in- 
closure, and down the hill, to finish the 
punishment of his wife. She, with onei 
other kitchen servant, was concealed in 
the swamp at the foot of the hill ; 
but when Dick called her, beside \v, 
herself with friffht, she left her hidin"- 




THE NEGRO CUTS II 



WliL IHUuHtU AM) 



place and went to him. AVithout a'Mf 

word, the negro cut her through and ^ 

through, and then leaving her for 

dead, started down the BlufF-road, 

that led around the town to the 

mouth of the Big Black-Kiver, and 

would doubtless have made his escape but for the shrewdness of the 

same young negro who had at first given Greene the alarm. 

Without stopping to see the result of the affray, the lad immedi- 
ately ran down to the town, went first to a tavern upon the main 
road, and then to another, some distance up the river and near the 
Bluff-road. The boarders at either place were just awaiting the tea 
bell, and mustered pretty strongly. Fifty men, at least, immediately 
started for the scene of the murder ; a part by the direct road, and a 
part — through the lad's advice — by the circuitous one. 

The latter party, captured the murderer, knife in hand, and 
brought him directly to the sheriff's office, when they were met by 
the other and stronger company, headed by a brother of the mur- 
dered man. They also had made a capture, and one that caused 
more alarm for a time, than the tragedy itself. 

Half way between the bluff and the town, a negro heading for the 
latter, at full speed, with a butcher knife in one hand and hatchet in 



180 BLACK DICK AND THE LYNCHERS. 

the other, ran right among them, and was seized and pinioned. The 
affair began to look like an insurrection among the negroes. The 
first party kept on to Greene's house, and searching it found con- 
cealed in and under Dick's bed, twenty-one dangerous weapons of 
several kinds. 

The two parties — as I have before said — met at the sheriff's office. 
The first — much the stronger of the two — declared their intention 
of taking the prisoner and burning him alive that very night, and 
were only prevented from so doing by the representations of the 
sheriff, that if they did, all chance of discovering those who were 
implicated with Dick, would be thrown away ; and besides, that the 
next day being Sunday, the execution of Dick would be witnessed 
by many plantation negroes, and might produce a salutary effect 
upon them. 

Having procured a temporary reprieve, the sheriff endeavored to 
obtain assistance enough to seize the negro, but was unsuccessful, 
and on the next day the murderer was 
hung, and his body burned. Had it 
not been for the active inter- 
ference of a Mr. Smith, the 
then editor of the Grand 
Gulf paper, the prisoner 
would have been burned at 
the stake; but the latter 

begged that a jury might be ^^" '^^^^""^^^^T*^^^ 
selected, and the prisoner revenge of the lynching party. 

receive at least the form of a trial. The question was put to a vote, 
and all but five or six of the hundreds assembled, voted in favor 
of a jury. 

There was no real necessity for anticipating thus the slow, but in 




BIG JOE luOd^6i:uS'6 DESPERATE ENCOUNTER. 



181 



this case, sure action of the law, and the only excuse that it will 
admit of, is the fact that sixteen negroes had been arrested the 
previous night who proved to have been implicated with Dick, — 
at least so far as furnishing him with weapons. This created a very 
general fear of an intended insurrection, which, perhaps, the immedi- 
ate execution of the ringleader might quell. 



BIG JOE LOGSTON'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER WITH 
TWO INDIANS. 



Joe Logston was one of that class of half horse, half alligator 
Kentuckians, that could — to use his own words — "out-run, out- 
hop, out-jump, throw 
down, drag out and 
whip any man in the 'Ih 




AN OI-D KENTUCKY FIST FIQHT BETWEEN JOE AND THE INDIAN. 

country." Joe was a powerful fellow, of six feet three in his stock- 
ings, and proportionably stout and muscular, with a handsome good- 
natured face, and a fist like a sledge-hammer. Fear was a word he 



182 Bia JOE logston's desperate encounter. 

knew not the meaning of, and to fight was his pastime, particularly 
if his scalp was the prize he fought for. 

On one occasion he was mounted on his own favorite pony, (Joe 
owned two or three others which he had ''run'' from the Indians.) 
which was leisurely picking its way along the trail, with his head 
down and half asleep, when he came to a fine vine of grapes. Joe 
laid his gun across the pommel of his saddle, set his hat on it, and 
filled it with grapes. He turned into the path and rode carelessly 
along, eating his grapes, and the ^first intimation he had of danger, 
was the crack of two rifles, one from each side of the road. One of 
the balls passed through the paps of his breast, which, for a male, 
were remarkably prominent, almost as much as those of many 
nurses. The ball just grazed the skin between the paps, but did 
not injure the breast bone. The other ball struck the horse behind 
the saddle, and he sunk in his tracks. 

Thus was Joe eased off his horse in a manner more rare than 
welcome. Still he was on his feet in an instant, with his rifle in his 
hands, and might have taken to his heels ; and we will venture the 
opinion, that no Indian could have caught him. That, he said, was 
not his sort. He had never left a battle ground without leaving his 
mark, and he was resolved that that should not be the first. The 
moment the guns fired, one very athletic Indian sprang towards him 
with tomahawk in hand. His eye was on him, and his gun to his 
eye, ready, as soon as he approached near enough to make a sure 
shot, to let him have it. As soon as the Indian discovered this, he 
jumped behind two pretty large saplings, some small distance apart, 
neither of which were large enough to cover his body, and to save 
himself as well as he could, he kept springing from one to the other. 

Joe, knowing that he had two enemies on the ground, kept a look 
out for the other by a quick glance of the eye. He presently dis- 



BIG JOE LOGSTON'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER. 183 

covered him behind a tree loading his gun. The tree was not quite 
large enough to hide him. When in the act of pushing down his 
bullet he exposed pretty fairly his hips. Joe, in the twinkling of an 
eye, wheeled and let him have his load in the part exposed. The 
big Indian then, with a mighty " Ugh !" rushed toward him with his 
raised tomahawk. 

Here were two warriors met, each determined to conquer or die, — 
each the Goliah of his nation. The Indian had rather the advantage 
in size of frame, but Joe in weight and muscular strength. The 
". Indian made a halt at the distance of fif- 
teen or twenty feet, and threw his toma- 
hawk with all his force, but 
Joe had his eye on him and 
dodged it. It flew quite out 
of the reach of either of them. 
Joe then clubbed his gun and 
made at the Indian, thinking to 
knock hira down. The Indian 
sprang into some brush, or sap- 

THE INDIAN THROWS niS TOMAHAWK AT JOE. UngS tO aVOld MS blOWS. ThC 

Indian depended entirely on dodging, with the help of the saplings. 

At length Joe, thinking he had a pretty fair chance, made a side 
blow with such force, that missing the dodging Indian, the gun, now 
reduced to a naked barrel, was drawn quite out of his hands, and 
flew entirely out of reach. The Indian now gave another exulting 
"Ugh" and sprang at him with all the savage fury he was master of. 
Neither of them had a weapon in his hands, and the Indian seeing 
Logston bleeding freely, thougl^t he could throw him down and dis- 
patch him. In this he was mistaken. They seized each other and 
a desperate scuffle ensued. Joe could throw him down, but could 




184 



BIG JOE LOGSTON'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER. 



not hold him there. The Indian being naked, with his hide oiled, 
had greatly the advantage in a ground scuffle, and would still slip 
out of Joe's grasp and rise. 

After throwing him five or six times, Joe found, that between loss 
of blood and violent exertions, his wind was leaving him, and that 
he must change the mode of warfare or lose his scalp, which he was 
not yet willing to spare. He threw the Indian again, and without 
attempting to hold him, jumped from him, and as he rose, aimed a 
fist blow at his head which caused him to fall back, and as he would 
rise, Joe gave him several blows in succession, the Indian rising 
slower each time. He at last succeeded in giving him a pretty fair 
blow in the burr of the ear, with all his force, and he fell, as Joe 
thought, pretty near dead. Joe jumped on him, and thinking he 
could dispatch him by choking, grasped 
his neck with bis left hand, keeping his 
right one free for contingencies, 

Joe soon found the Indian 
was not so dead as he thought, 
and that he was makmg some 
use of his right arm 
which lay across his 
body, and on casting his 
eye down, discovered 
the Indian was making 
an effort to unsheath a 
knife that was hanging 
at his belt. The knife joe finishes one of the Indians. 

was so short and so sunk in the sheath, that it was necessary to 
force it up by pressing against the point. This the Indian was trying 
to effect, and with good success. Joe kept his eye on it and let the 




BIG JOE LOGSTON'S DESPERATE ENCOUNTER. 185 

Indian work the handle out, when he suddenly grabbed it, jerked it 
out of the sheath, and sunk it up to the handle in the Indian's breast, 
who gave a death groan and expired. 

Joe now thought of the other Indian, and not knowing how far he 
had succeeded in killing or crippling him, sprang to his feet. He 
found the crippled Indian had crawled some distance toward them, 
and had propped his broken back against a log, and was trying to 
raise his gun to shoot him ; but in attempting to do which he would 
fall forward, and had to push against his gun to raise himself again. 
Joe seeing that he was safe, concluded that he had fought long 
enough for healthy exercise that day, and not liking to be killed by a 
crippled Indian he made for the fort. He got in about nightfall, 
and a hard-looking case he was — blood and dirt from the crown of 
his head to the sole of his feet, no horse, no hat, no gun — with an 
account of the battle that some of his comrades could scarce 
believe to be much else than one of his big stories, in which he would 
sometimes indulge. He told them they must go and judge for them- 
selves. 

Next morning a company was made up to go to Joe's battle 
ground. When they approached it Joe's accusers became more 
confirmed, as there was no appearance of dead Indians, and nothing 
Joe had talked of but the dead horse. They, however, found a trail 
as if something had been dragged away. On pursuing it they found 
the big Indian at a little distance, beside a log, covered up with 
leaves. Still pursuing the trail, though not so plain, some hundred 
yards farther, they found the broken-backed Indian, lying on his 
back with his own knife sticking up to the hilt in his body, just be- 
low the breast-bone, evidently to show that he had killed himself 
and that he had not come to his end by the hand of an enem3\ 
They had a long search before they found the knife with which Joe 



186 THE PATRIOTIC QUAKERESS 

killed the big Indian. They at last found it forced down into the 
ground below the surface, apparently with the weight of a person's 
heel. This had been done by the crippled Indian. The great 
efforts he must have made alone, in that condition, show among 
thousands of other instances, what Indians are capable of under 
the greatest extremities. 



Some years after the nbovr 
took place, peace ~ 
with the Indians -^^ Yr, 
was restored. That =^ 
frontier, like many 
others, became in- 
fested with a gang 
of outlaws, who 
commenced steal- "^^^ ^^^ ^^ ^^"^ ■''^^• 

ing horses and committing various depredations. To counteract 
which, a company of regulators, as they were called, was raised. In 
a contest between these and the depredators. Big Joe Logston lost 
his life. 




THE PATRIOTIC QUAKERESS. 

When the British array held possession of Philadelphia, General 
Harris' head-quarters were in Second street, the fourth door below 
Spruce, in a house which was before occupied by General Cadwala- 
der. Directly opposite, resided William and Lydia Darrah, members 
of the Society of Friends. A superior officer of the British army, 
believed to be the Adjutant General, fixed upon one of their cham- 
bers, a back room, for private conference ; and two of them fre- 
quently met there, with fire and caudles, in close consultation. 



THE PATRIOTIC QUAKERESS. 



18t 



About the second of December, the Adjutant General told Lydia 
that they would be in the room at seven o'clock, and remain late, and 




RESIDENCE OF THE QUAKERESS, IX SECOND STREET BELOW SPRUCE, PHILADELPHIA. 

that they wished the family to retire early to bed ; adding, that when 
they were going away, they would call her to let them out, and extin- 
guish their fire and candles. She accordingly sent all the family to 
bed, but, as the oflScer had been so particular, her curiosity was 
excited. She took ofT her shoes, and put her ear to the key-hole of 
the conclave. She overheard an order read for all the British troops 
to march out, late in the evening of the fourth, and attack General 
Washington's army, then encamped at White Marsh. On hearing 
this, she returned to her chamber and laid herself down. Soon 
after, the officers knocked at her door, but she rose only at the third 
summons, having feigned to be asleep. 

Her mind was so much agitated that, from this moment, she could 
neither eat nor sleep, supposing it to be in her power to save the 
lives of thousands of her countrymen, but not knowing how she was 



188 



THE PATRIOTIC QUAKERESS. 



to convey the necessary information to General "Washington, nor 
daring to confide it even to her husband. The time left, was, how- 
ever, short ; she quickly determined to make her way, as soon as 
possible, to the American outposts. She informed her family, that, 
as they were in want of flour, she would go to Frankfort for some ; 
her husband insisted that she should take with her the servant maid, 
but to his surprise she positively refused. 

She got access to General Howe, and solicited — what he readily 
granted, — a pass through the British troops on the lines. Leaving 
her bag at the mill, she hastened toward the American lines, and 
encountered on her way an American, Lieutenant Colonel Craig, of 
the light horse, who, with some of his men, was on the look-out for 
information. He knew her, and inquired whither she was going. 
~\ ^ She answered, in quest of 

^\» X>^/T/dM/> Z her son, an officer in the 
'American army; and 
^ prayed the Colonel to 
^^^^^£>>x alight and walk 
with her. He 
did so, ordering 
his troops to 
; keep in sight. 

To him she 

I disclosed her 

momentous se- 




THE QUAKERESS HASTENING TO THE AMERICAN LINES 



cret, after having obtained from him the most solemn promise never to 
betray her individually, since her life might be at stake, with the 
British. He conducted her to a house near at hand, directed a 
female in it to give her something to eat, and then speeded for head- 
quarters, where he brought General Washington acquainted with 



CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A COUGAR. 189 

what he had heard. Washington made, of course, all preparation 
for baffling the meditated surprise. Lydia returned home with her 
flour ; sat up alone to watch the movement of the British troops ; 
heard their footsteps ; but when they returned in a few days after, 
did not dare to ask a question, though solicitous to learn the event. 

The next evening, the Adjutant General came in, and requested 
her to walk up to his room, as he wished to put some questions. 
She followed him in terror, and when he locked the door, and begged 
her, with an air of mystery, to be seated, she was sure that she was 
either suspected or had been betrayed. He inquired earnestly 
whether any of her family were up the last night he and the other 
officer met ; — she told him that they all retired at eight o'clock. 
He observed — "I know you were asleep, for I knocked at your 
chamber door three times before you heard me ; I am entirely at a loss 
to imagine who gave Washington information of our intended attack, 
unless the walls of the house could speak. When we arrived near 
White Marsh, we found all their cannon mounted, and the troops 
prepared to receive us ; and we have marched back like a parcel of 
fools." 



CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A COUGAR.-AS RELATED BY 
HIMSELF. 

Night was fast closing in, and as I began to think that I had just 
about sport enough for one day, I might as well look around for a 
place of shelter for the night, and take a fresh start in the morning, 
by which time I was in hopes my horse would be recruited. Near 
the margin of the river a large tree had been blown down, and I 
thought of making my lair in its top, and approached it for that 
purpose. While beating among the branches I heard a low 



190 



CROCKETT'S FIGHT WITH A COUGAR. 



growl, as mucli as to say, " Stranger, the apartments are already 
taken." 

Looking about to see what sort of a bed-fellow I was likely to have, 
I discovered, not more than five or six paces from me, an enormous 
Mexican Cougar, eyeing me as an 
epicure surveys the table before he 
selects his dish, for 
I have no doubt the 
cougar looked upon 
me as the subject ___ 
of a future supper 
Rays of light darted ^^ 
from his large eyes, ^ 
he showed his teeth ^-=^^==ss^^ 




I PO\ MB lilKC A M(.HT-HAWK UPON A JUNE BU«. 



like a negro in hvs- — 

° •' ITL W \^ I) 

terics, and he was crouching on his haunches ready for a spring ; all 
of which convinced me that unless I was pretty quick upon the 
trigger, posterity would knov^ little of the termination of my eventful 
career, and it would be far less glorious and useful than I intended to 
make it. 

One glance satisfied me that there was no time to be lost, as Pat 
thought when falling from a church steeple, and exclaimed, " This 
would be mighty pleasant, now, if it would only last," but there was 
no retreat either for me or the cougar, so I leveled my Betsey and 
blazed away. The report was followed by a furious growl, (which 
is sometimes the case in Congress,) and the next moment, when I 
expected to find the tarnal critter struggling with death, I beheld 
liim shaking his head as if nothing more than a bee had stung him, 
The hall had struck him on the forehead and glanced off, doing no 
other injury than stunning him for an instant, and tearing off the skin, 



Crockett's fight with a couaAR. 191 

which tended to infuriate him the more. The cougar wasn't long in 
making up his mind what to do, nor was I neither ; but he would have 
it all his own way, and vetoed my motion to back out. 

I had not retreated three steps before he sprang at me like a steam- 
boat ; I stepped aside, and as he lit upon the ground, I struck him 
violently with the barrel of ray rifle, but he didn't mind that, but 
wheeled around and made at me again. The gun was now of no use, 
so I threw it away and drew my hunting knife, for I knew we should 
come to close quarters before the fight would be over. This time 
he succeeded in fastening on my left arm, and was just beginning to 
amuse himself by tearing the flesh off with his fangs, when I ripped 
my knife into his side, and he let go his hold, much to ray satisfac- 
tion. 

He wheeled about and came at me with increased fury, occasioned 
by the smarting of his wounds. I now tried to blind him, knowing 
that if I succeeded he would become an easy prey ; so as he ap- 
proached me I watched my opportunity, and aimed a blow at his 
eyes with my knife, but unfortunately it struck him on the nose, and 
he paid no other attention to it than by a shake of the head and a 
low growl. He pressed me cloprv and as I was stepping backward 
my foot tripped in a vine, and I fell to the ground. 

He was down upon me like a night-hawk upon a June bug. He 
seized hold of the outer part of my right thigh, which afforded him 
considerable amusement ; the hinder part of his body was towards 
my face ; I grasped his tail with my left hand, and tickled his ribs 
with my hunting knife, which I held in my right. Still the critter 
wouldn't let go his hold ; and as I found that he would lacerate my 
leg dreadfully, unless he was speedily shaken off, I tried to hurl him 
down the bank into the river, for our scuffle had already brought us 
to the edge of the bank. I stuck my knife into his side, and sum- 



192 ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 

moned all my strength to throw him over. He resisted, was desper- 
ate heavy ; but at last I got him so far down the declivity that he 
lost his balance, and rolled over and over till he landed on the 
margin of the river ; but in his fall he dragged me along with him. 

Fortunately, I fell uppermost, and his neck presented a fair mark 
for my hunting knife. Without allowing myself time even to draw 
breath, I aimed one desperate blow at his neck, and the knife en- 
tered his gullet up to the handle, and reached his heart. He 
struggled for a few moments, and died. I have had many fights with 
bears, but they were mere child's play ; this was the first fight ever 
I had with a cougar, and I hope it may be the last. 



ADVEWTUBES OF SIMON KEWTON. 

In the summer of 1778, Colonel Bowman ordered Simon Kenton 
the celebrated Indian fighter of Kentucky, to take his friend Mont- 
gomery and another young man named Clarke, and go on a secret 
expedition to an Indian town on the Little Miami, against which 
the Colonel meditated an expedition, and of the exact condition of 
which he wished to have certain information. They instantly set 
out, in obedience to their orders, and reached the neighborhood 
of the town without being discovered. They examined it atten- 
tively, and walked around the houses during the night with perfect 
impunity. Thus far all had gone well ; and had they been contented 
to return after the due execution of their orders, they would have 
avoided the heavy calamnity which awaited them. 

But, unfortunately, during their nightly promenade, they stumbled 
upon a pound in which were a number of Indian horses. The temp- 
tation was not to be resisted. They each mounted a horse, but not 



ADVENTURES OP SIMON KENTON. 



193 



satisfied with that, they could uot find it in their hearts to leave a 
single animal behind them, and as some of the horses seemed indis- 
posed to change 
masters, the affair was 




KESTON AND MONTGOMERY RUNNING OFF THE INDIAN HORSES. 

attended with so much fracas, that at last they were discovered. 
The cry ran through the village at once, that the Long Knives were 
stealing their horses right before the doors of their wigwams, and 
old and young, squaws, boys, and warriors, all sallied out with loud 
screams to save their property from these greedy spoilers. Kenton 
and his friends quickly discovered that they had overshot the mark, 
and that they must ride for their lives ; and while two of them rode 
in front and led, the other brought up the rear, and plying his whip 
from right to left, did not permit a single animal to lag behind. 

In this manner they dashed through the woods at a furious rate 
with the hue and cry after them, until their course was suddenly 
stopped by an impenetrable swamp. Here, from necessity, they 
paused for a few moments and listened attentively. Hearing no 
sounds of pursuit, they resumed their course, and skirting the swamp 
13 



194 ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 

for some distance, in the vain hope of crossing it, they bent their 
course in a straight direction toward the Ohio. They rode during 
the whole night without resting a moment — and halting for a few 
minutes at daylight, they continued their journey throughout the 
day, and the whole of the following night, and by this uncommon 
expedition, on the morning of the second day they reached the 
northern bank of the Ohio. 

Crossing the river would now ensure their safety, but this was 
likely to prove a difficult undertaking, and the close pursuit which 
they had reason to expect, rendered it necessary to lose as little time 
as possible. The wind was high, and the river rough and boisterous. 
It was determined that Kenton should cross with the horses, while 
Clark and Montgomery should construct a raft in order to transport 
their guns, baggage and ammunition to the opposite shore. The 
necessary preparations were soon made, and Kenton, after forcing 
his horses into the river, plunged in himself and swam by their side. 
In a very few minutes the high waves completely overwhelmed him, 
and forced him considerably below the horses, that stemmed the cur- 
rent much more vigorously than himself. 

The horses being thus left to themselves, turned about, and swam 
again to the Ohio shore, where Kenton was compelled to follow them. 
Again he forced them into the water — and again they returned to 
the same spot, until Kenton became so exhausted by repeated 
efforts, as to be unable to swim. A council was then held and the 
question proposed " what was to be done ?" That the Indians would 
pursue them, was certain ; that the horses would not, and could not 
be made to cross the river in its present state was equally certain. 
Should they abandon their horses and cross on the raft, or remain 
and take such fortune as heaven should send them ? The latter al- 
ternative was unanimously adopted. Death or captivity might be 



ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 



195 




tolerated — but the loss of so beautiful a lot of horses, after having 
worked so hard for them, was not to be thought of for a moment. 

As soon as it was determined that themselves and horses were to 
share the same fate, it again became necessary to fix upon some 

probable plan of saving them. 
vShould they move up or down 
the river, or remain where they 
were ? The latter course was 
idopted. It was supposed that 
- the wind would fall at 
- sunset, and the river be- 
come sufficiently calm 
to admit of their pas- 
sage, and as it was sup- 
posed probable that the 
Indians might be upon 
them before night, it was 
determined to conceal the horses in a neighboring ravine, while they 
should take their stations in an adjoining wood. A more miserable 
plan could not have been adopted. If they could not consent to 
sacrifice their horses, in order to save their own lives, they should 
have moved either up or down the river, and thus have preserved 
the distance from the Indians which their rapidity of movement had 
gained. 

The Indians would have followed their trail, and being twenty-four 
hours march behind, could never have overtaken them. But neglect- 
ing this obvious consideration, they stupidly sat down until sunset, 
expecting that the river would become more calm. The day passed 
away in tranquillity, but at night the wind blew harder than ever, and 
the water became so rough, that even their raft would have been 




HOLDING A COLNCIL 



196 ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 

scarcely able to cross. Not an instant more should have been lost, 
in moving from so dangerous a post ; but as if totally infatuated, they 
remained where they were until morning ; thus wasting twenty-four 
hours of most precious time in total idleness. In the morning the 
wind abated, and the river became calm — but it was now too late. 
Their horses, recollecting the diflBculty of the passage on the preced- 
ing day, had become as obstinate and heedless as their masters, and 
positively and repeatedly refused to take the water. 

Finding every effort to compel them entirely unavailing, their 
masters at length determined to do what ought to have been done at 
first. Each resolved to mount a horse and make the best of his way 
down the river to Louisville. Had even this resolution, however 
tardily adopted, been executed with decision, the party would pro- 
bably have been saved, but after they were mounted, instead of leav- 
ing the ground instantly, they went back upon their own trail, in the 
vain effort to regain possession of the rest of their horses, which had 
broken from them in the last effort to drive them into the water. 
They wearied out their good genius, and literally fell victims to their 
love for horse-flesh. 

They had scarcely ridden one hundred yards, (Kenton in the 
centre, the others upon the flanks, with an interval of two hundred 
yards between them,) when Kenton heard a loud halloo, apparently 
coming from the spot which they had just left. Instead of getting 
out of the way as fast as possible, and trusting to the speed of his 
horse and the thickness of the wood for safety, he put the last cap- 
ping stone to his imprudence, and dismounting, walked leisurely back 
to meet his pursuers, and thus give them as little trouble as possible. 
He quickly beheld three Indians and one white man, all well mounted. 
Wishing to give the alarm to his companions, he raised his rifle to 
his shoulder, took a steady aim at the breast of the foremost Indian, 



ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 191 

His gun had become wet on the raft and 
flashed. 

The enemy were instantly alarmed, and dashed at him. Now, at 
last, when flight could be of no service, Kenton betook himself to his 
heels, and was pursued by four horsemen at full speed. He instantly 
directed his steps to the thickest part of the wood, where there was 
much fallen timber and a rank growth of underwood, and had suc- 
ceeded, as he thought, in baffling his pursuers, when, just as he was 
leaving the fallen timber and entering the open wood, an Indian on 
horseback galloped round the corner of the wood, and approached 
him so rapidly as to render flight useless. The horseman rode up, 
holding out his hand and calling out " brother ! brother !" in a tone 
of great afiection. Kenton observes that if his gun would have 
made fire, he would have " brothered" him to his heart's content, 
but being totally unarmed, he called out that he would surrender if 
they would give him quarter and good treatment. 

Promises were cheap v^^ith the Indian, and he showered them out 
by the dozen, continuing all the while to advance with extended 
hands and a writhing grin upon his countenance, which was intended 
for a smile of courtesy. Seizing Kenton's hand he grasped it with 
violence. Kenton, not liking the manner of his captor, raised his 
gun to knock him down, when an Indian who had followed him 
closely through the brushwood, instantly sprung upon his back and 
pinioned his arms to his side. The one who had just approached 
him, then seized him by the hair and shook him until his teeth 
rattled, while the rest of the party coming up, they all fell upon 
Kenton with their tongues and ramrods, until he thought they would 
scold or beat him to death. They were the owners of the horses 
which he had carried off, and now took ample revenge for the loss of 
their property. At every stroke of their ramrods over his head, (and 



198 



ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 



they were neither few nor far between,) tbey would repeat in a tone 
of strong indignation, " steal Indian boss ! ! hey ! !" 

Their attention, however, was soon directed to Montgomery, who, 
having heard the noise attending Kenton's capture, very gallantly 

hastened up to his assistance ; while 
Clark very prudently consulted his 
l(' own safety in betaking himself to his 
heels, leaving his unfortunate com- 
(>(^ panions to shift for themselves. 
Montgomery halted within 
gunshot and appeared busy 
with the pan of his gun, as if 
preparing to fire. Two In- 
dians instantly sprung ofif in 
pursuit of him, while the rest 
attended to Kenton. In a 
few minutes Kenton heard' 
the crack of two rifles in 
quick succession, followed by a halloo, which announced the fate of 
his friend. The Indians quickly returned, waving the bloody scalp 
of Montgomery, and with countenances and gestures which menaced 
him with a similar fate. 

They then proceeded to secure their prisoner. They first com- 
pelled him to He upon his back, and stretch out his arms to their 
full length. They then passed a stout stick at right angles across 
his breast, to each extremity of which his wrists were fastened by 
thongs made of buffalo hide. Stakes were then driven into the 
earth, near his feet, to which they were fastened in a similar manner. 
A halter was then tied around his neck, and fastened to a sapling 
which grew near, and finally a strong rope was passed under his 




THE PATE OP MONTGOMERY. 



ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON, 199 

belly, lashed strongly to the pole which lay transversely upon his 
breast, and finally wrapped around his arms at the elbows, in such a 
manner as to pinion them to the pole with a painful violence, and 
render him literally incapable of moving hand, foot, or head, in the 
slightest manner. 

During the whole of this severe operation, neither their tongues 
nor hands were by any means idle. They cuffed him from time to 
time with great heartiness, until his ears rung again, and abused him 

for a "tief! — a boss steal! — a rascal !" and finally, for a "d d 

white man !" I may here observe, that all the western Indians had 
picked up a good many English words, particularly our oaths, which 
from the frequency with which they were used by our hunters and 
traders, they probably looked upon as the very root and foundation 
of the English language. Kenton remained in this painful attitude 
throughout the night, looking forward to certain death, and most 
probably torture, as soon as he should reach their towns. Their rage 
against him seemed to increase rather than abate, from indulgence, 
and in the morning it displayed itself in a form at once ludicrous and 
cruel. 

Among the horses which Kenton had taken, and which their orig- 
inal owners had now recovered, was a fine but wild young colt, 
totally unbroken, and with all his honors of mane and tail undocked. 
Upon him Kenton was mounted, without saddle or bridle, with his 
hands tied behind him, and his feet fastened under the horse's belly. 
The country was rough and bushy, and Kenton had no means of pro- 
tecting his face from the brambles, through which it was expected 
that the colt would dash. As soon as the rider was firmly fastened 
to his back, the colt was turned loose with a sudden lash, but after 
exerting a few curvettes and caprioles, to the great distress of his 
rider, but to the infinite amusement of the Indians, he appeared to 



200 



ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 



take compassion on his rider, and falling into a line with the other 
horses, avoided the brambles entirely, and went on very well. In 
this manner he rode through the day. At night he was taken from 
the horse and confined as before. 

On the third day they carae within a few miles of Chillicothe. 
Here the party halted, and dispatched a messenger to inform the 
village of their arrival, in order 
to give them time to prepare 
his reception. In a short tii. 
Blackfish, one of their chiei 
arrived, and regarding Kent. 
with a stern countenance, 
thundered out in very good 
English, "you have been 
stealing horses ?" " Yes 
sir." "Did Captain Boone 
tell you to steal our horses ?" 
" No sir ; I did it of my own accord." This frank confession was 
too irritating to be borne. Blackfish made no reply, but brandishing 
a hickory switch, which he held in his hand, he applied it so briskly 
to Kenton's naked back and shoulders, as to bring the blood freely, 
and occasion acute pain. 

Thus, alternately beaten and scolded, he marched on to the village. 
At the distance of a mile from Chillicothe, he saw every inhabitant 
of the town, men, women and children, running out to feast their 
eyes with a view of the prisoner. Every individual, down to the 
smallest child, appeared in a paroxysm of rage. They whooped, 
they yelled, they hooted, they clapped their hands, and poured upon 
him a flood of abuse to which all that he had yet received was gentle- 
ness and civility. With loud cries, they demanded that their prisoner 




KENTON BOUND TO A WILD YOUNG HORSE. 



ADVENTURES OP SIMON KENTON. 201 

should be tied to the stake. The hint was instantly complied 
with. 

A stake was quickly fastened into the ground. The remnant of 
Kenton's shirt and breeches was torn from his person, (the squaws 
officiating with great dexterity in both operations.) and his hands 
being tied together, and raised above his head, were fastened to the 
top of the stake. The whole party then danced around him until 
midnight, yelling and screaming in their usual frantic manner, strik- 
ing him with switches, and slapping him with the palms of their 
hands. He expected every moment to undergo the torture of fire, 
but that was reserved for another time. They wished to prolong 
the pleasure of tormenting him as much as possible, and after having 
caused him to anticipate the bitterness of death, until a late hour of 
the night, they released him from the stake and conveyed him to the 
village. 

Early in the morning he beheld the scalp of Montgomery stretched 
upon a hoop, and drying in the air, before the door of one of their 
principal houses. He was 
quickly led out and ordered yv 
to run the gauntlet. A row 
of boys, women, and men, 
extended to the distance of 
a quarter of a mile. At t] 
the starting place, stood s^ 
two grim looking warriors, h 
with butcher knives in ^fil^'Cjr- 

their hands; at the ex- 

tremity of the line, was an 

Indian beating a drum ; and 

a few paces beyond the drum, was the door of the council house. 




RUNNING THE GAUNTLET. 



202 



ADVENTURES OF SIMON KENTON. 



Clubs, switches, hoe-haDdles, and tomahawks were brandished 
along the whole line, causing the sweat involuntarily to stream from 
his pores, at the idea of the discipline which his naked skin was to 
receive during the race. 

The moment for starting arrived ; the great drum at the door of 
the council house was struck ; and Kenton sprung forward in the 
race. Kenton avoided the row of his enemies, and turning to the 
east, drew the whole party in pursuit of him. He doubled several 
times with great activity, and at length observing an opening, 
darted through it, and pressed forward to the council house with a 
rapidity which left his pursuers far behind. One or two of the In- 
dians succeeded in throwing themselves between him and the goal, 
and from these alone he received a few blows, but was much less in- 
jured than he could at first have supposed possible. 

As soon as the race was over, a council was held in order to de- 
termine whether he should be burnt to death on the spot, or carried 

round to the other villages 
and exhibited to every tribe. 
The latter course was deter- 
mined on and Kenton passed 
through many difficulties and 
underwent much suffering. 
For three weeks he was vi- 
brating between life and 
death, where no wisdom, or 
^tH^|m^^-</^ foresight, or exertion of his 
own could save him. He 
was eight times exposed to 
the gauntlet and three times tied to the stake, at each of which 
he expected nothing but death. Finally, however, he was sent to 
Petroit. 




INCIDENT AT THE BATTLE OF BOONESBOROCTGH : 
KENTON SAVINtt THE LIFE OF BOONE. 



A SHE DEVIL AMONG THE TORIES. 



203 



Here he remained in a state of easy restraint, from October 1778, 
until June 1779, when he made his escape, and arrived safely at 
Louisville, after a march of thirty days. 



A SHE DEVIL AMONG THE TOUIEo. 

Nancy Hart and her husband settled before the Revolutionary 
War a few miles above the ford on Broad river, in Elbert County, 

Georgia. An ap- 
ple orchard still re- 




I NEVER FEED KING'S MEN" SAID NANCY, " 



CAN HELP IT.' 



mains to point out the spot. In altitude, Mrs. Hart was a Patago- 
nian, and remarkably well-limbed and muscular. In a word, she 
was *' lofty and sour." Marked by nature with prominent features, 
circumstances and accident added, perhaps, not a little, to her 
peculiarities. She was horribly cross-eyed, as well as cross-grained; 
but, nevertheless, she was a sharp-shooter. Nothing was more 
common than to see her in full pursuit of the bounding stag. The 



204 A SHE DEVIL AMONG THE TORIES. 

huge antlers that hung round her cabin, or upheld her trusty gun, 
gave proof of her skill in gunnery ; and the white comb, drained of 
its honey and hung up for ornament, testified to her powers in bee- 
finding. 

The clouds of war gathered, and burst with a dreadful explosion in 
this state. Nancy's spirit rose with the tempest. She declared 
and proved herself a friend to her country, ready " to do or die." 

On the occasion of an excursion from the British camp at 
Augusta, a party of Tories penetrated into the interior, and having 
savagely murdered Colonel Dooly in bed, in his own house, they 
proceeded up the country for the purpose of perpetrating further 
atrocities. On their way, a detachment of five of the party diverged 
to the east, and crossed Broad river, to make discoveries about the 
neighborhood, and pay a visit to their old acquaintance, Nancy Hart. 
On reaching her cabin, they entered it unceremoniously, receiving 
from her no welcome but a scowl, and informed her they had come 
to know the truth of a story current respecting her, that she had 
secreted a noted rebel from a company of King's men who were 
pursuing him, and who, but for her aid, would have caught and 
hung him. Nancy undauntedly avowed her agency in the fugitive's 
escape. 

She told them she had at first heard the tramp of a horse rapidly 
approaching, and had then seen a horseman coming towards her 
cabin. As he came nearer, she knew him to be a Whig, and flying 
from pursuit. She let down the bars a few steps from her cabin, 
and motioned him to enter, to pass through both doors, front and 
rear, of her single-roomed house, to take the swamp, and secure 
himself as well as he could. She then put up the bars, entered her 
cabin, closed the doors, and went about her business. Presently 
some Tories rode up to the bars, and called out boisterously to her. 



A SHE DEVIL AMONG THE TORIES. 205 

She muffled her head and face, and opening the door, inquired why 
they disturbed a sick, lone woman. They said they had traced a man 
they wanted to catch, near her house, and asked if any one on horse- 
back had passed that way. She answered no, but said she saw some- 
body on a sorrel horse turn out of the path into the woods, some two 
or three hundred yards back. " That must be the fellow," said the 
Tories ; and asking her direction as to the way he took, they turned 
about and went off, " well fooled !" said Nancy, " in an opposite 
course to that of ray Whig boy ; when, if they had not been so lofty- 
minded, but had looked on the ground inside the bars, they would 
have seen his horse's tracks up to that door, as plain as you can see 
the tracks on this here floor, and out of t'other door down the path 
to the swamp." 

This bold story did not much please the Tory party, but they 
could not wreak their revenge upon the woman who thus unscrupu- 
lously avowed her daring aid to a rebel, and the cheat she had put 
upon his pursuers, otherwise than by ordering her to aid and comfort 
them by giving them something to eat. She replied " I never feed 
King's men, if I can help it. The villains have put it out of my 
power to feed even my own family and friends, by stealing and killing 
all my poultry and pigs, except that one old gobbler you see in the 
yard." 

" Well, and that you shall cook for us," said one, who appeared 
the head of the party ; and raising his musket, he shot down the 
turkey, which another of the men brought into the house, and handed 
to Mrs. Hart, to clean and cook without delay. She stormed and 
swore awhile — for Nancy occasionally swore — but seeming, at last, 
resolved to make a merit of necessity, began with alacrity the ar- 
rangements for cooking, assisted by her daughter, a little girl some 
ten or twelve years old, and sometimes by one of the soldiers, with 



206 



A SHE DEVIL AMONG THE TORIES. 



whom she seemed in a tolerably good humor, exchanging rude jests 
with him. The Tories, pleased with her freedom, invited her to par- 
take of the liquor they had brought with them, an invitation which 
was accepted with witty thanks. 

The spring, of which every settlement has one near at hand, was 
just at the edge of the swamp, and a short distance within it was 
a high snag-topped stump, on which was placed 
a conch-shell. This rude 
trumpet was used by the 
family to give information, 

by means of a variation oi , ,,, 

notes, to Mr. Hart, or his 
neighbors, who might be at 
work in the field or clearing 
just beyond the swamp, that 
the " Britishers" or Tories 
were about ; that the master 
was wanted at the cabin, or 




SUKEY BLOWS THE CONCH-SHELL. 



that he was to " keep close," or " make tracks" for another swamp. 
Pending the operations of cooking, Mrs. Hart had sent her daughter, 
Sukey, to the spring for water, with directions to blow the conch in 
such a way as would inform him that there were Tories in the cabin, 
and that he should " keep close," with his three neighbors who were 
with him, till he heard the conch again. 

The party had become merry over their jug, and sat down to feast 
upon the slaughtered gobbler. They had cautiously stacked their 
arms where they were in view, and within reach; and Mrs. Hart 
assiduous in her attentions upon the table and to her guests, occa- 
sionally passed between them and their muskets. Water was called 
for, and as there was none in the cabin — Mrs. Hart having so con- 



A SHE DEVIL AMONG THE TORIES. 207 

trived that — Sukey was again sent to the spring, instructed by her 
mother to blow the conch so as to call up Mr. Hart and his neigh- 
bors immediately. Meanwhile, Mrs. Hart had slipped out one of the 
pieces of pine which constitutes a " chinking" between the logs of a 
cabin, and had dexterously put out of the house, through that space, 
two of the five guns. 

She was detected in the act of putting out the third. The party 
sprang to their feet. Quick as thought, Mrs. Hart brought the piece 
she held to her shoulder, 
and declared she would 
kill the first man 
who approached 
her. All were ter- 
ror-struck, for 
Nancy's obliquity 
of sight caused each 
one to imagine her 
aim was at him. At 
length one of them 

NANCY SHOOTS ONE AND DEMANDS TBE SUIiKENDER UF THE 

made a motion to others. 

advance upon her. True to her threat, she fired. He fell dead upon 
the floor. Instantly seizing another musket, she brought it to the 
position in readiness to fire again. By this time Sukey had returned 
from the spring, and taking up the remaining gun, carried it out of 
the house, saying to her mother, " Daddy and them will soon be here." 
This information increased the alarm of the Tories, who understood 
the necessity of recovering their arms immediately. But each hesi- 
tated, in the confident belief that Mrs. Hart had one eye, at least, 
upon him for a mark. They proposed a general rush. No time was 
to be lost by the bold woman ; she fired again, and brought down 




208 



THE ROSE Ui' GUADALOUPE. 



another Tory. Sukey had another musket in readiness, which her 

mother took, and, posting herself in the doorway, called upon the 

party to " surrender their d d Tory carcasses to a Whig woman." 

They agreed to surrender, and proposed to " shake hands upon the 

strength of it;" but the conqueror kept them in their places for a 

few moments, till her husband and his neighbors came up to the door. 

• 
They were about to shoot down the Tories, but Mrs. Hart stopped 

them, saying they had surrendered to 7ier, and, her spirit being up 

to boiling heat, she swore 

that " shooting was too good 

for them." This hint was 

enough. The dead man was 

dragged out of the house, the 

wounded Tory and the others 

were bound, taken out beyond 

the bars, and hung. The 

tree upon which they were 

hung was pointed out, in 

THE SHE DEVn/s FAVORITE TREK. ^^SS, by OnC WhO livod iU 

those bloody, times, and who also showed the spot once occupied by 
Mrs. Hart's cabin, accompanying the designation with the emphatic 
remark, " Poor Nancy — she was a honey of a patriot, but the devil 
of a wife." 




•the eose of 



GUADALOUPE-A TEXAN EANGER'S 
STOBY. 



" I don't know much about story-telling, boys," said the oldest 
ranger of our party, as he cleared his throat and replenished his 
pipe ; " but I can tell you of a lliinrr that once happenrd in my settle- 



THE ROSE OF GUADALOUPE. 209 

ment, which, if it is not altogether new to most of you, at least has 
the plain truth to recommend it. 

" Some of 3'ou recollect old Andrew Lockhart, who used to live 
down in the big bend of the Warloupe, (Guadaloupe,) just below the 
Q u e r o settlement. />. ^ ^ ^ A 

At the time 




OLD ANDREW S DAUaHTER CARRIED OFF BY THE COMANCHE CHIEF. 

of, he had a daughter just seventeen, and as beautiful and delicate as a 
prairie flower. Many a youngster's head was turued by her beauty, and 
many a brave lad's heart burned to win and wear the ' Rose of the War- 
loupe.' Old Andrew was moughty proud of his gal, and loved her as 
deeply as any father could love a child. One summer evening she 
strolled out in the prairie to gather flowers, when suddenly a war party 
of the Comanches dashed out of the timber bottom, and rushed upon 
her. She shrieked and turned to fly, but it was no use ; a delicate gal 
could hardly escape such fleet pursuers as were on her trail ; and 
before she had run twenty yards, the chief dashed by, and stooping 
from the saddle as he passed, seized her around the waist, and raised 
her by his strong arm to a seat before him. Without halting his 
14 



210 THE ROSE OF GUABALUOPE. 

horse for a moment, was this feat accomplished, and before the poor 
gal could scarcely cry aloud for aid, she was borne rapidly towards 
the mountains. 

" Her old father was frantic with grief and rage. Hastily collect- 
ing his neighbors and friends, he pursued the savages who had thus 
forcibly stolen his child, and with the sagacity and skill of an old 
frontierman, tracked them to their mountain haunts. Late one 
evening, we came in sight of the Comanche encampment, and finding 
that we had not been discovered by the Indians, concluded to defer 
the attack until daybreak on the next morning. Secreting ourselves 
as well as we could, we waited with impatience for the hour of the 
coming fight. As soon as the first streak of light was seen in the 
sky, the Texan war-shout was raised, and we rushed down upon the 
village. 

"The Comanches turned out in numbers, and a fierce battle 
began. I cannot describe to you the perils we went through that 
day. There were only about forty of us, while the Comanches were 
two hundred strong. Notwithstanding the great odds against us, 
we fought them desperately from daylight until dark, and many of 
their greatest warriors fell before our steady fire. But it wouldn't 
(Jo — it wouldn't do — the odds were too great ; they overpowered us, 
and we were compelled to fall back. 

" Old Andrew fought like a devil that day. On every part of the 
field his voice was heard cheering his friends on, and you could see 
his white hairs waving in the wind as he Leaded a charge, or some- 
times fought single-handed with some big warrior of the tribe. 
Several times he was within a few feet of the tent where his daughter 
was confined, and could hear her voice calling on him for aid. But 
it wouldn't do— he was driven back with the rest of us, and we 
dragged him away when we retreated. He was the last man to 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 



211 



quit the fight, and seemed to have been the mark for every bullet 
and arrow that was shot at us, yet, strange to say, he escaped un- 
hurt. We were not strong enough to whip them, said the old 
Texan, as his voice grew husky with emotion, and we were com- 
pelled to leave the poor gal in 
the hands of her savage enemies." 

"Well ; what became of her," 
said a young ranger, drawing his 
hand across his eyes. 

"She was delivered up 
sometime afterwards, when jii 
we made a treaty with the 
Comanches at San Antonio. 
She returned to her father s 
house, but she never recov- 
ered from the hardships and 
cruelties she endured at the hands of the Indians. She was always 
melancholy and downcast. Her health was injured, her spirits gone, 
and her heart broken. She lived only a few months, then drooped 
and died. Curses on them Comanche dogs !" said the old Texan, 
grinding his teeth in the excitement of his feelings. "I have never 
sent a bullet through one of their infernal hearts from that day to 
this, without remembering, as I pulled the trigger, the fate of that 
poor gal." 




RETDKN OF THE HEART BROKEN DAUGHTER. 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 

KiDNAPPixG and horse-stealing had become the order of the 
day, — or rather of the night, — for scarcely one passed that some 
planter had not to deprecate the loss of one or more of his chattels. 



212 THE SWAMP ROBBERS OP LOUISIANA. 

Faithful and esteemed family servants were spirited away in the 

most mysterious manner. Choice stock disappeared from the stables, 

jj though secured 

'•'"■^ never so strongly 

under lock and bolt, 
t\\ \ . ' 

, / \J ', J- and watched over 




M0BDER AND ROBBEKY AMONG THE PLANTERS. 



by trusty and vigilant sentinels ; — sometimes ward and warden would 
disappear together. Dwellings were liable on any occasion to noc- 
turnal visitations ; and unless the occupants slept with one eye open, 
and were prepared to defend their premises, some valuable article, — 
a fine rifle, or double-barrelled shot gun, or perchance a saddle and 
bridle, — would in the morning be reckoned among the things that 
were. When a saddle was thus taken it was usually accompanied by 
some favorite blooded colt of the planter's, or perhaps his nearest 
neighbor's span of matched carriage horses. In short, no one was 
secure from plunder. For some months this state of things had con- 
tinued, and of late the scoundrels, whoever they were, had become 
bold by success, and the highways were not only becoming unsafe, but 
absolutely dangerous to travel. Several prominent planters had 
been murdered,— shot down from behind trees for the valuables about 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 213 

their persons, while passing from their places to the neighboring 
villages. Some even had been attacked within sight and sound of 
their very homes ; and, indeed, several had been shot while riding 
through their own fields, their persons rifled, and their horses ridden 
off to the swamps. 

These extraordinary occurrences opened the eyes of the commu- 
nity to the alarming fact that a large and skillfully organized gang 
of shrewd villains were running off their property. But who were 
they ? and where did they rendezvous ? These were the questions that 
each asked of his neighbor, but without any satisfactory answer. 
That they were not far off was very evident from the celerity of 
their movements; and all their operations showed the most con- 
summate management and system. Were they strangers, who, 
under the cover of night only, stole from their hiding-places upon 
the settlements, or were they old residents, with whom they were in 
daily and hourly contact, — their neighbors and associates, and the 
employees on their estates ? These were perplexing queries which 
the planters asked of themselves, but hardly dared to breathe aloud, 
lest they might arouse unjust suspicions, and implicate innocent 
persons. 

A number of planters forthwith resolved themselves into a Vigil- 
ance Committee, and called a meeting of good citizens, to take into 
consideration this alarming state of affairs, and institute measures 
for ridding the country of the obnoxious characters, whose immedi- 
ate neighborhood no one doubted. Patrols were appointed, and a 
regular system of guard and watch was determined upon ; besides 
which a numerous party, made up of the most responsible citizens 
and trustworthy servants, were directed to keep continually on the 
hunt through swamps and canebrakes, in search of the haunts of the 
robbers. 



214 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OP LOUISIANA, 



So cunningly devised, however, were the plans of the rogues, and 
so secret their movements, that even their footsteps could be traced 
but a little distance from the scenes of their depredations. With 
the most consummate skill they managed to obliterate every sign as 
they penetrated the surrounding forests, so that it became impossi- 
ble to follow them. 

Thus matters remained for several weeks, no one having yet ob- 
tained a trace of either their stolen property or of the thieves. The 

country was scoured in every direc- 
tion where it was thought possible 
for a hidden rendezvous to exist. 
the wide swamps and among 
the sluggish lagoons, that 
covered a good portion of 
the country between the 
Red River and Caddo Lake, 
were many wild and appa- 
rently unapproachable spots 
yet unexplored by the foot 
? of man. There were dark 
and gloomy recesses, impen- 
THE robbers' retreat. ctrablc to horscmau or 

pedestrian, where the rank growth of cypresses and other gigantic 
products of the festering sloughs were festooned with masses of the 
luxuriant tillandsea (Spanish Moss) and clustering vines, and where 
the light of day had never penetrated. Within these frightful shad- 
ows, breathing only of poisonous vapors and malaria, nothing save 
the musky alligator and his congenial associates, noisome lizards and 
water-moccasins, could long exist. Many of these wild spots, sur- 
rounded by waveless and discolored lagoons, could be approached 




'^:g^ 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 215 

only with great labor, and by means of " dug-outs," winding among 
partially submerged roots of climbing vines and cypresses. But 
once within the intricate labyrinth, whose unbroken mass of fetid 
vegetation, reeking with moisture and slime, sent a chill through the 
trembling frame, there was no escape but to those familiar with their 
winding passages. Within these sunless jungles the hapless captive 
was as completely shut out from the sympathies of the world, and 
for the time as hopelessly imprisoned, as if the bolts and bars of a 
Bastile had been turned against him. 

For the first three weeks after the organization of the Vigilance 
Committee, the incursions of the thieves were almost suspended ; 
only at times some atrocious robbery, more bold and daring than 
ever before perpetrated, would astonish the community, and again 
throw it into an ebullition of excitement. Again every individual 
would sally out, in the vain endeavor to trace the footsteps of the 
adroit rogues. 

Among those most active in carrying out the measures of the com- 
mittee, were two extensive cotton planters on Soda Lake, who, set- 
tled in the country but a few years, had rapidly added to the number 
of their hands, and were considered the most successful cultivators 
of the staple in the parish. They were also among the most influen- 
tial citizens, and their position and wealth had already pointed them 
out as leaders in the crusade against the robbers. These men were 
Colonel Betts and General Hawley ; for, be it remembered, it then 
was, as it is still, the custom in the south-western states to attach a 
military handle to every respectable citizen's name. 

Besides these worthy men, there was a very popular middle-aged 
lawyer named Benson, or Colonel Benson, as he was called, in con- 
tradistinction to a captain of that ilk. This individual had been a 
resident of the parish for years, and being a person of a free and 



216 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 



easy address, and withal gifted with a peculiar talent for stump 
oratory, had represented the parish in the state legislature, and was 
now canvassing his congressional district, as a candidate for the honor 
of serving the dear people at Washington. 

There was also a certain Farson Eedfield, a very pious preacher, 
who warmly advocated the propriety of prefacing the deliberations 

of the committee with an address to 
the "Throne of Divine grace," and 
who, on all occasions, 
evinced the greatest zeal in 
ferreting out the supposed 
hiding-places of the obnox- 
ious gang, himself often lead- 
ing the van into the most 
suspicious-looking coverts of 
I the swamps. These men 
^ were extremely ofificious, and 
managed, in a great measure, 
the proceedings against the 
PARSON kedfield's PROPOSITION. maraudcrs. 

But there were a few quiet but shrewd observers among the citi- 
zens, who were of the opinion that those who were so loud in their 
cries of " stop thief!" would bear to be watched a little themselves ; 
and apparently approving of the recommendations of those active 
and zealous advocates of good order and justice, they determined to 
follow their own judgments. To impeach the intentions or integrity 
of persons of their high standing in the community, would have been 
like putting their necks into the hangman's noose, and they therefore 
continued to keep an eye upon their movements, while they acquiesced 
in their plans. Colonel Devoll, a wealthy planter, being the heaviest 




THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 217 

loser, was expected to take an active part in the premises ; but, to 
the surprise of all, he continued apparently indifferent to a matter so 
absorbingly interesting to his neighbors. With all this apparent un- 
concern, however, he ultimately proved himself the most efficient and 
valuable member of the organization. 

Shreveport, the capital of Caddo Parish, from its peculiar situa- 
tion at the foot of the Great Red River Raft, and being on the 
frontier of the States of Louisiana, Arkansas, and the then Republic 
of Texas, was the resort and stopping-place of many strangers, and 
its streets were often filled with a variety of characters. Like all 
southern river towns, it was frequently honored by the professional 
visits of gamblers of every degree, from thimble riggers to the 
wealthy monte and faro dealers, from the dens of New Orleans. 
These last were regarded, in the cotton and sugar-growing state, 
with much more approbation than any where else, and were even 
sometimes admitted to the society of the most respectable. 

At this period there were a good number of these gentry in the 
place. But so accustomed had the citizens become to their presence, 
that they were not thought of as having any connection with the 
existing state of things in the parish. Colonel Devoll, however, 
set himself quietly to watch their motions. 

There was one of these " professional sporting gentlemen," as the 
fraternity pompously style themselves, who had excited his suspi- 
cion. One day, at the fashionable hotel, he had seen this blackleg 
introduce one of his comrades to Colonel Benson, the congressional 
candidate. The lawyer acknowledged the honor with due courtesy, 
and extending his hand, received the introduced as one he had never 
met before. But Devoll, whose eyes were following their motions, 
detected, by a covert sign the two men exchanged with each other, 
that there was a mutual understanding between them. Without 



218 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OP LOUISIANA. 



mentioning this circumstance to any one, the planter continued his 
quiet observations, and it was not long before he discovered that 
Betts and Hawley, as well as the pious and zealous parson, were on 
terms of disguised intimacy with Captain Curtis, as the gambler was 
called. 

Yery slight circumstances are received by some minds as conclu- 
sive evidence ; and when they are coupled one with another, they 
present a chain of testimony that forces an involuntary conviction. 
So it was with Colonel Devoll, as he passed in review all the various 
facts he had collected of the gambler, and his covert intercourse 
with the other individuals he had been led to suspect. 

On one occasion, after a shower had laid the dust of the road, the 
colonel chanced to meet Curtis riding in the direction of Hawley's 

plantation, where 
he had become a 
frequent visitor. 
After passing the 
gentlemanly horse- 
man, the colonel's 
attention was 
called to the pecu- 
liar footprints of 
the gambler's 
horse. He ob- 

PECCLIAR FOOTPRINTS OP THE GAMBLER'S HORSE. SCrVCd On thC Icft 

hind shoe an uncommon arrangement of the nails, and an extraor- 
dinary notched appearance of the toe-cock. On the inner side of 
the left foot there were five nails, while on the outer there were only 
three. Whether this arrangement was the result of carelessness or 
design on the part of the smith was not clear, but such was the fact, 
and the observant colonel made a note of it. 




THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 219 

That same evening lie encountered his neighbor Betts, on his way 
from town to his plantation, and, by a singular coincidence, and to 
his surprise, discovered that the tracks of his blooded saddle nag 
were precisely like those of the captain's animal, only in his case 
the right shoe bore the odd arrangement of nails, instead of the left, 
and the toe-cock was marked in the same manner. 

A few days after making this discovery. Colonel Devoll's suspicion-^ 
were further strengthened by the fact that Parson Redfield's favorite 
riding nag made similar tracks in the dust. Knowing the shop 
where the suspected persons were in the habit of having their horse- 
shoeing done, the colonel called upon the proprietor, and by adroit 
questioning ascertained that this peculiar manner of putting on the 
shoes was by special direction of his patrons. He also ascertained 
the fact, that only those persons he had previously suspected, had 
ever ordered their horses' shoes put on in that manner. The smith 
assured him that he could immediately recognize the tracks made 
by those shoes ; for though each one had a peculiar mark, they were 
all after the same general character. He was not aware of any 
other gentlemen in the parish having their horses shod in that 
manner. The usual mode was four nails in each side of the shoo, 
with smooth toe-cocks. 

The theory that immediately suggested itself to the mind of the 
colonel, after revolving these facts, was that these peculiar shoe- 
tracks were adopted as a kind of freemasonry, by which the mem- 
bers of the gang might know that their leaders were abroad ; or, in 
case of a sudden journey or flight being necessary, their comrades 
might be able to follow them, if need be ; and this theory subsequent 
events proved correct. 

Living in the vicinity of Alexandria, Rapides Parish, was an ec- 
centric half-breed Indian, named Delaware Dave. This man was 



220 THE SWAMP ROBBERS OP LOUISIANA. 

noted, far and near, for a peculiar faculty he possessed of following 
a scent, even after it was weeks old. In some instances, he had 
been known to pursue, as if by instinct, or clairvoyance, the obliter- 
ated footsteps of the chase, for three or four weeks, and finally come 
upon the flying camp of the hapless fugitive. If a horse w^is long 
astray, or a vicious plantation mule had hidden itself away in the 
intricacies of the cane-brakes, Delaware Dave was forthwith sent 
on the track, and the animal captured. In short, Dave was an in- 
valuable fellow when he could be kept sober, for, like almost all 
half-breed Indians — neither red nor white — he was an incorrigible 
drunkard. 

After consulting with his judicious neighbors, Colonel Devoll de- 
termined to send a trusty messenger to a friend in Alexandria, to 
obtain the services of the half-breed, in ferreting out the whereabouts 
of the gang that was infesting the parish. 

Accordingly, in a few days, Dave arrived at the colonel's planta- 
tion ; and after a three days' glorious drunk, which was a part of his 
contract, he announced that he was ready for business, and de- 
manded to know what was required of him. Now, among Dave's 
eccentricities, was the remarkable fact of his honesty ; for, when 
once intrusted with a secret, it was inviolable, and he devoted all his 
energies to the accomplishment of what he was set about. In fact, 
his peculiar vocation — the only one he was fit for — had become a 
passion with him, and he hunted his game, whatever it might be for 
the time, with the avidity of an animal of the feline species. 

He was taken out upon the road near Shreveport and shown one 
of the odd horse-shoe marks I have described, and directed to follow 
it wherever it went, and report the result of his observations to Col- 
onel Devoll within three days. 

At the end pf that time Dave returned ; but all the discovery he 



THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 



221 



had made was, that the. animal that made the tracks had passed 
between the town and the plantations of Betts and Hawley — some- 
times alone and at others accompanied with similar tracks ; more 
frequently, however, there were two horsemen together. These, 
from the half-breed's description, were Benson and the parson. 

So far, then, nothing new had been elicited, but a confirmation of 
the fact that there was daily intercourse between the suspected 
parties. And Dave was directed to continue his hunt. 

At the expiration of another three days the cunning half-breed 
again returned ; and this time his report was still more important. 

He had followed the priest and 
the lawyer, by an unfrequented 
'oute, deep into the swamp, to the 
shore of Soda Lake, where 
they evidently had embarked, 
horses and all, on a flat, in 
the direction of a large 
island. The horsemen were 
accompanied by two negroes, 
whom they had driven be- 
fore them. In corrobora- 
tion of Dave's second report, 
it was well known that two 
DELAWARE DAVE ON TRACK OF THE ROBBERS. Valuable housc-servauts were 
missing from the town in the two past days. The colonel also 
learned that the two men Dave described were absent. So far, then, 
so good. Things were progressing promisingly. 

Again the half-breed was ordered to the swamp ; and, being told 
where he could find a dug-out, was directed to follow up the scent, 
nor return till he bad found the depot of the rogues. And in 




222 THE SWAMP ROBBERS OF LOUISIANA. 

twenty-four hours he again made his appearance, and in the most 
excited manner announced the entire success of his hunt. He had 
come upon an extensive camp of white men and negroes, on the 
upper end of the island, where the two men he had been following 
were engaged in superintending the loading of a covered flat boat, 
evidently intended to be dispatched down the Red River into the 
Mississippi. 

It was not many hours before, acting upon this important infor- 
mation, a small party of neighboring planters were in the saddle, on 
their way towards Shreveport, in quest of the accomplished Captain 
Curtis, and to arouse the citizens. Nor was it long after their 
arrival there that similar parties halted at the gates of the two sus- 
pected planters, who were immediately arrested, and conducted to 
the presence of that stern administrator of justice. Judge Lynch, 
and committed till further developments might be made. Charter- 
ing a steamboat that lay in front of the town, a large force of armed 
citizens embarked upon the lake, and steamed up toward the island, 
under the pilotage of Delaware Dave. 

The lake being navigated for the greater part of the year, and the 
steamer belonging to that particular trade, no great attention was 
paid to her by the occupants of the hidden camp till her bows were 
run into the swampy shore, and the armed citizens, rushing into the 
thickets, surrounded the spot. Then followed a desperate and 
sanguinary fight, continued for several hours, (for the villains were 
prepared for any emergency,) and resulting in many wounds and 
deaths on both sides — the besieged, however, suffering greatest. 

Many of the ruffiane were taken, and being strongly bound, were 
conveyed to the boat, under the guard of their recent captives. Many 
others escaped — some by secreting themselves in the deep jungles 
of the swampy island*, and others by swimming from island to island 
to the opposite shore. 



LEWIS AND THE RATTLESNAKE. 



223 



Among tliose taken were the tv/o leaders, tlie congressional can- 
didate and the canting parson. 

A few days after the fight at the island, the incorruptible Judge 
Lynch was called upon to mete out final justice to the robbers. 
With all due form, the jury of the as- 
sembled people investigated the facts 
and rendered their verdict ; 
in compliance with which 
the culprits were suspended 
from the trees of the nearest 
swamp, like so many scare- 
crows hung in cornfields to _u.|j,,/' 
frighten away the plunder- '-J;^' 
ing birds. ( ^ ? ^v. 

As might well be sup- summary v-.i.^. .. jl;;..i. l^....i. 

posed, after the breaking up of this band of desperadoes, Delaware 
Dave became a noted character. But the poor fellow did not long 
after live to enjoy his deserved renown. One morning his body was 
found in the river, riddled with bullets, and his throat cut from ear 
to ear — the work, no doubt, of some of the survivors of the gang. 




LEWIS AND THE RATTLESNAKE. 

, The family of John Lewis were the first settlers of Augusta, in 
the state of Virginia, and consisted of himself, his wife, and four 
sons, Thomas, William, Andrew, and Charles. Of these, the first 
three were born in Ireland, from whence the family came, and the 
last was a native of Virginia. 

Lewis was a man of wealth and station in the old country, and 



224 



LEWIS AND THE RATTLESNAKE. 



the cause of his emigration to America was an attempt, on the part 
of a man of whom he hired some property, to eject him therefrom, 




APPALLING SITUATION OF LEWIS. 



which led to an affray, in which the noble landlord lost his life. 
Fearing, from the high standing of his antagonist, the desperate 
character of his surviving assailants, and the want of evidence to 
substantiate his case, that his life would be in danger if he staid, 
Lewis fled the country, accompanied by a party of his tenantry, and 
settled in the then western wilds of Virginia. 

The father appears to have been a man of remarkable force and 
energy, and all four of his sons rendered themselves conspicuous for 
deeds of daring and determined bravery during the early history of 
Western Virginia, and that of her infant sisters, Ohio and Kentucky, 
which would require volumes to relate. 

Ch«.rles Lewis was, even in early youth, distinguished for those 
qualifications which have rendered the class to which he belonged — 
the Indian fighters — so remarkable among men. He was a young 



LEWIS AND THE RATTLESNAKE. 225 

man when the Indians commenced their attacks upon the settle- 
ment of Western Virginia, but entered the contest with a zeal and 
courage which outstripped many of his older and more boastful 
compeers. His astonishing self-possession and presence of mind car- 
ried him safely through many a gallant exploit, which has rendered 
his name as familiar, and his fame as dear to the memories of the de- 
scendants of the early settlers, as household words. Cool, calm, 
and collected in the face of danger, and quick-witted where others 
would be apt to be excited and tremulous, he was able to grasp on 
the instant the propitious moment for action, and render subservient 
to his own advantage the most trifling incident. 

He was so unfortunate, on one occasion, as to be taken prisoner 
by a party of Indians while on a hunting excursion. Separated 
from his companions, he was surprised and surrounded before he 
was aware of his danger, and when he did become aware of his 
critical situation, he saw how futile it was to contend, and how reck- 
less and fatal it must be to himself, should he kill one of his antago- 
nists. He knew full well that the blood of his enemy would be 
washed out in his own, and that, too, at the stake ; whereas, if he 
surrendered peaceably, he stood a chance of being adopted by the 
Indians as one of themselves. Revolving these things in his mind, 
he quietly delivered up his rifle to his enemies, and was led away by 
his captors, who rejoiced exceedingly over their prisoner. Bare- 
headed, with his arms bound tightly behind him, without a coat, and 
bare-footed, he was driven forward some two hundred miles toward 
the Indian towns, his inhuman captors urging him on when he 
lagged, with their knives, and tauntingly reminding him of the trials 
which awaited him at the end of the journey. Nothing daunted, 
however, by their threats and menaces, he marched on in the weary 
path which led him further and further from his friends, perfectly 
15 



226 LEWIS AND THE RATTLESNxVKE. 

tractable, so far as his body was concerned, but constantly busy in 
Lis mind with schemes of escape. He bided his time, and at length 
the wished-for moment came. 

As the distance from the white settlements increased, the vigil- 
ance of the Indians relaxed, and his hopes increased. As the party 
passed along the edge of a precipice, some twenty feet high, at the 
foot of which ran a mountain torrent, he, by a powerful effort, broke 
the cords which bound his arms, and made the leap. The Indians, 
whose -aim it was to take him alive, followed him, and then com- 
menced a race for life and liberty, which was rendered the more ex- 
citing by the fact that his pursuers were close upon him and could 
at any moment have dispatched him. But such was not their desire, 
and on, on, he sped, now buoyed up by hope as his recent captors 
were lost to sight, and anon despairing of success as he crossed an 
open space which showed them almost at his heels. 

At length, taking advantage of a thicket, through which he 
passed, and which hid him from their sight for a moment, he darted 
aside and essayed to leap a fallen tree which lay across his path. 
The tangled underbrush and leaves which grew thickly around and 
almost covered the decaying trunk, tripped him as he leaped, and 
he fell with considerable force on the opposite side. For an instant 
he was so stunned by the fall as to lose his consciousness, but soon 
recovered it to find that the Indians were actively searching every 
nook in his immediate vicinity, and that he had fallen almost directly 
upon a large rattlesnake which had thrown itself into the deadly 
coil so near his face that its fangs were within a few inches of his 
nose. Is it possible for the most vivid imagination to conceive of a 
more horrible and terrifying situation ? 

The pursuit of his now highly exasperated and savage enemies, 
who thirsted for his recapture that they might wreak upon him a 



LEWIS AND THE RATTLESNAKE. 



22t 



fearful revenge, which of itself was a fearful danger, calculated to 
thrill the nerves of the stoutest system, had now become a secondary 
fear, for death in one of its most terrifying and soul-sickening forms 
was vibrating on the tongue, and darting from the eye of the fearful 
reptile before him, so near, too, that the vibratory motion of his 
rattle, as it waved to and fro, caused it to strike his ear. The 
slightest movement of a muscle — a convulsive shudder — almost the 
winking of an eyelid, would have been the signal for his death. Yet 
in the midst of this terrible 
danger, his presence of mind 
did not leave him, but like a 
faithful friend did him good 
service in his hour of trial. 

Knowing the awful nature 
of his impending fate, and 
conscious that the slightest ' 
quivering of a nerve would v^^, j J^im^^i^^^'^^ 

precipitate it, he scarcely. 
breathed, and the blood 
flowed feebly through his veins as he lay looking death in the eye. 
Surrounded thus by the most appalling danger, he was conscious that 
three of the Indians had passed over the log behind which he lay 
without observing him, and disappeared in the dark recesses of the 
forest. Several minutes — which to him were as many hours — passed 
in this truly terrifying situation, until the snake, apparently satisfied 
that he was dead, loosed his deadly coil, and passing directly over 
his body, was lost to sight in the luxuriant growth of weeds which 
grew up around the fallen tree. Oh ! what a thrill— what a revulsion 
of feeling shook his frame as he was relieved from this awful situa- 
tion. Tears— tears of joyous gratitude coursed down his cheeks as 
he poured out his heart to God in thankfulness for his escape. 




THE WEARY HOMEWARD MARCH. 



228 DARING EXPLOITS OF COLONEL JACK HAYS. 

" I had eaten nothing-," said he to his companions after his return, 
" for many days ; I had no fire-arms, and I ran the risk of dying with 
hunger before I could reach the settlements ; but rather would I have 
died than have made a meal of that generous beast," He was still 
in imminent danger from the Indians, who knew that he had hidden 
in some secluded spot, and were searching with the utmost zeal every 
nook and corner to find him. He was fortunate enough, however, to 
escape them, and after a weary march through the wilderness, during 
which he suffered intensely from hunger, he reached the settlements. 



BAKING EXPLOITS OF COLONEL JACK HAYS, THE 
TEXAN KANGEK. 

Were an account of the Indian fights, skirmishes, and adventures 
of Colonel Hays to be given to the world, it would fill a volume, and 
the work would be looked upon rather as the effusion of a fertile 
imagination, consisting of legendary tales, and the adventures of 
some fictitious knight-errant, than to be the faithful account of the 
achievements of a man, living and moving among us. But that 
" truth is stranger than fiction," is exemplified daily ; and we are 
almost inclined to believe, that there are but few things which exist 
in the imagination of man, that could not, with the proper spirit, 
perseverance, and determination, be reduced to living reality. 

It was some time in the month of July, 1844, that he was engaged 
in one of the most remarkable Indian fights perhaps on record. 
Remarkable, not for the numbers engaged, nor the duration of the 
conflict, but from the fearful odds against the Rangers. At the 
time we speak of. Hays was surrounded by as gallant a little band 
of noble and brave men, numbering only fourteen, as ever fought for 



DARING EXPLOITS OF COLONEL JACK HAYS. 229 

the liberty of any land. Among this Spartan band were the names 
of- a Gillespie, a Walker, and a Chevalier, whose noble deeds have 
since made J JS^j^^l^ ^ j ^^^ ^^/xf^^^ 
them 




THE RANGERS CHARGING ON THE COMANCHES. 

to the world. On this occasion, Hays had gone out with his men 
some eighty miles from San Antonio, toward the river Pierdenales, 
for the purpose of ascertaining the position of the Indians, and to 
watch their movements. On arriving near the river, they discovered 
some ten or fifteen Comanche warriors, well mounted, who immedi- 
ately made demonstrations of fight. As the Rangers advanced 
upon them, however, they would retreat, and thus endeavored to 
lead the Texans toward a ridge of thick undergrowth. But Hays 
was too well acquainted with the Indian character to be caught by 
their snares ; and he immediately judged by their manceuvering, that 
an ambuscade had been laid for him, and with difficulty restrained 
the impetuosity of his " boys" from advancing to the attack. 

He then marched around the copse, Vv'hero he supposed the 
Indians to be concealed, and drew up on another ridge, separated 



230 DARINa EXPLOITS OF COLONEL JACK HAYS. 

from their position by a deep ravine. He had occupied this situa- 
tion but a short time, when the Indians discovered who he was, and 
knowing their man, gave up the hope of catching him by stratagem. 
The Indians then showed themselves to the number of seventy-five, 
and challenged him to the contest. Hays accepted the challenge, 
and signified to them that he would meet them, and immediately 
started down the hill with his men, toward the Indians, moving at 
the same time in the slowest possible pace, until reaching the bottom 
of the ravine, where he was hid from the view of the Indians, by the 
brow of the hill upon which they were formed. Then turning at full 
speed down the ravine, followed by his little troop, he turned the 
point of theridge, came up in the rear of the enemy, and charged 
their column, when every eye of the Indian phalanx was looking in 
momentary expectation of seeing him rise the hill in their front ! 
His first fire upon them, with short rifles, being deadly, threw 
them into utter confusion. The yells, imprecations, and war-whoops 
that filled the air after the report of the rifles, would have blanched 
many a cheek as it echoed wildly over the plain. But there stood 
Hays and his gallant men as firm and undaunted as the rock. 

The Indians seeing their great superiority in numbers, soon rallied, 
when the Eanger ordered his men to throw down their rifles, and 
prepare with their five-shooters to receive the charge of the enemy. 
In order to resist attack on all sides, as the Indians were surround- 
ing them. Hays formed his men in a circle, fronting outwards, being 
still mounted on their horses, and for fifteen or twenty minutes 
maintained that position, never firing a shot until the Indians came 
within the length of their lances of them. Their aim was sure, and 
every fire brought down a warrior. Some twenty-one of the red 
men were killed on that spot, before they desisted, and then the 
Rangers, changing their ground, charged them in turn. The fight 



DAR1*NG EXPLOITS OP COLONEL JACK HAYS. 231 

lasted for nearly an hour, the two parties alternately charging each 
other. By this time the Texans had exhausted the loads in 
their five-shooting pistols, and the chief was again rallying his war- 
riors for one more desperate struggle. 

Hays' numbers were now reduced, and the crisis was an awful one. 
He saw that their only salvation was to kill the Indian chief, and 
demanded of his men, if any one had a charge left. The lamented 
(Japt. Gillespie replied that he had reserved his rifle. 

"Dismount, then," said Hays, "and make sure work of that 
chief." 

Although speared through the body, the gallant Gillespie dis- 
mounted, and at the crack of his rifle, the chief fell headlong from 
his horse. Panic-struck, the 
Indians fled in dismay, pur- 
sued by the Texans, who 
gained a complete victory. 
On the battle-field of Pier- 
denales lay some thirty odd 
of their dead ; how many 
were wounded, was not 
known. On the part of the 
Rangers, two were killed, 
and some four or five 
wounded, among whom were 
Gillespie and Walker, since celebrated in American history, who 
were both speared through the body. 

At another time. Hays went out with a party of some fifteen or 
twenty men, upon the frontier of Texas, then many miles west of the 
white settlements, for the purpose of surveying and locating lands 
in the vicinity of a place well known as the " Enchanted Kock." 




MAKING SCRE WOKK OF THE CHIEF. 



232 DARING EXPLOITS Oi' COLONEL JACK HAYS. 

We are unable to give to the reader the traditionary cause why this 
place was so named, but, nevertheless, the Indians had a great awe, 
amounting almost to reverence for it, and would tell many legendary 
tales connected with it and the fate of a few brave warriors, the last 
of a tribe now extinct, who defended themselves there for many 
years as in a strong castle, against the attacks of their hostile 
brethren. But they were finally overcome and totally annihilated, 
and ever since, the " Enchanted Eock" has been looked upon as the 
exclusive property of these phantom warriors. This is one of the 
many tales which the Indians tell concerning it. The rock forms 
the apex of a high, round hill, very rugged and difficult of ascent. 
In the centre there is a hollow, in the shape of a bowl, and suffi- 
ciently large to allow a small party of men to lie in it, thus forming 
a small fort, the projecting and elevated sides serving as a protec- 
tion. 

Not far from the base of this hill, Hays and his men, at the time 
of the expedition spoken of, which occurred in the year 1841, or '42, 
were attacked by a large force of Indians. When the fight com- 
menced. Hays being some distance from his party, was cut off from 
them, and being closely pressed by the Indians, made good his re- 
treat to the top of the hill. Reaching the " Enchanted Rock," he 
there entrenched himself, and determined to sell his life dearly, for 
he had scarcely a gleam of hope left to escape. The Indians who 
were in pursuit, upon arriving near the summit, set up a most 
hideous howl, and after surrounding the spot, prepared for the 
charge ; being bent upon taking this '' Devil Jack," as they called 
him, at all hazards, for they knew who was the commander. 

As they would approach, Hays would rise, and level his rifle ; 
knowing his unerring aim, they would drop back. In this way he 
kept them at bay for nearly an hour ; the Indians howling around 



THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON-SHIP. 



233 



him all the while, like so many wolves. But finally becoming em- 
boldened, as he had not yet fired his rifle, they approached so near 
that it became necessary for 

him to go to work in earnest. — Z- ;zr !^^^ 

So, as they continued to ^^^ ;^^ 

advance, he discharged his 
rifle, and then seizing his 
five-shooter, he felled them 
on all sides ; thus keeping 
them off, until he could re- 
load. In this manner he 
defended himself for three 
long hours, when the Indians 
becoming furiously exasper- the tightest place that ever jack was in. 
ated, rushed in mass, and gained the top, on one side of the hill ; his 
men, who had heard the crack of his rifle, and had been fighting 
most desperately to reach their leader, now succeeded in breaking 
through the file of Indians on the other side, and arrived just in time 
to save him. 

" This," said the Texan, who told us the story, " was one of 
* Jac^'*s'*most narrow escapes, and he considers it one of the tightest 
little places that he ever was in. The Indians, who had believed for 
a long time that he bore a charmed life, were then, more than ever, 
convinced of the fact." 




THRILLING ESCAPE PROM A PRISON-SHIP. 

In the year 1813, an American privateer, the Mary Ann, was 
captured by a British man-of-war, and the whole crew, some forty in 
number, carried into Plymouth and placed on board a loathsome 



mi 



THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON-SHIP. 



prison-ship, where they were subjected to all the indignities and 
cruelties which the English government, through its unfeeling officers, 

n j5'>;mT\:\\v;«€;is:\::ss;«^ \\\\\v then knew so 

well how to in- 




SICKENlNii SCEXE6 AMONW THE PRISONERS. 



unfortunate prisoners of war. They presented a most forlorn and 
wretched appearance. They were robbed of nearly all their valuables 
and clothing, fed with rations barely sufficient to sustain life, and 
literally packed and jammed into such close quarters that the foul 
air infused a pestilential poison through their systems. They were 
ragged and dirty, gaunt and ghastly, with pale, pinched faces, hollow 
cheeks, and sunken, restless eyes. Many were sick, several were 
dying, numbers had died, and the least afflicted could make no cal- 
culations of life. It was a scene of wretchedness and misery to 
sicken the heart of any being possessing the common feelings of 
humanity. 

Probably the most restless people in the world are the Americans, 
and for this reason they make the most troublesome prisoners. They 
will not settle down to inactivity under any wrong or oppression ; 



THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON-SHIP. 235 

they will not bear any burden meekly or tamely ; nurtured in the lap 
of freedom, they chafe fearfully under any restraint ; their liberty 
they will seek at any hazard — they pant for it as for the air they 
breathe ; show them the remotest possibility of accomplishing their 
purpose, and no danger, no thousand dangers, will deter them from 
the attempt ; destroyed they may be, but not subdueed. 

This was especially the case with the American prisoners in 
England during the war of 1812. The French, as a general thing, 
yielded a quiet submission to the oppressive laws which held them 
in bondage ; but the Americans were continually plotting escape, 
even when escape seemed impossible. No prison — no matter how 
strong its bolts and bars, how broad and high its walls, how deep 
and dangerous its moat, or how numerous and vigilant its guard — 
could shut out all hope from the heart of the native-born freeman of 
yet regaining his liberty by some personal and desperate hazard. 

Among the daring crew of the Mary Ann, was a young man, 
twenty-two years of age, a native of New London, Connecticut, by 
the name of Isaac Wheeler. He was rather small in person, with 
light hair and blue eyes, and his features in repose had a mild, 
inoffensive, almost sleepy expression. Unless you were a remarkable 
judge of physiognomy, he would probably be the last person you 
would select for a bold and desperate enterprise ; and yet the man 
had a perfect love of danger, and such a feeling as actual fear was 
unknown to him. He made his boast, when taken, that it was not 
in the power of the English government to keep him long a prisoner ; 
and for this insolence, as it was termed by his captors, he received 
some very harsh treatment, though all affected to believe it was 
mere Yankee braggadocio. 

But no sooner was Wheeler fairly on board the prison-ship at 
Plymouth, than he secretly began to plan and plot and execute. 



236 



THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON- SHIP. 



With a precaution for just such an emergency, he had, previous to 
his capture, prepared a saw from the main spring of a watch, and 
sewed it up in a seam of his under-shirt, where it had been over- 
looked by the men who searched and robbed him. With this, having 
taken into his confidence three other desperate fellows, he now began 
to work at the grates of one of the port-holes of the seventy-four ; 
and in less than a week, in spite of the vigilance of the guard, the 
bars were in a condition to be removed by a strong and sudden 
wrench. Waiting only for a dark and stormy night, which shortly 
after came, the fastenings were removed, and Wheeler was the first 
to crawl through. 

Unfortunately for the quiet success of his scheme, he slipped and 
plunged into the water below, and was heard by the sentry on duty 
above him who instantly gave the ~~ 
alarm. In a minute lights were 
dancing to and fro, and men were 
tumbling over the sides of the vessel 
into boats. So quickly were 
the boats manned and in ^T 
pursuit of the fugitive, that -^ - 
only one of his companions 
ventured to follow him, and 
he was riddled with balls ~ 
within twenty feet of where i |i 1/ 
he touched the water. This hr^ 
would have been the fate of 
Wheeler had he struck out 
for the shore ; but being a remarkable swimmer, he dove and went 
under the vessel, and came quietly up to breathe at the stern. By 
this time half-a-dozen boats were circling round the ship on an eager 




VVUKELER DETERMINED TO ESCAPE. 



THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON-SHIP, 23 1 

search, the excited crews cursing and grumbling, and firing at every 
thing which their fancy conjured into the appearance of a struggling 
man. 

One boat shortly approached so near to the fugitive, with its flash- 
ing lights, that he felt discovery to be certain if he remained longer 
where he was ; and accordingly he dove again, and swam under water 
the whole length of the keel, coming up under the bow. But another 
boat was here, and he had scarcely time to catch his breath when 
his head was perceived. This was announced by a yell of exultation, 
and in the same instant five or six shots were fired at him. Only 
one ball hit him, and this passed through the fleshy part of his 
shoulder, barely missing the bone, which would have disabled him, 
and rendered his recapture or death certain. He dove again, and, 
being mach out of breath, was obliged to come quickly to the sur- 
face ; which he did within fifty feet of the bow, on one side of the 
vessel, and directly under one of the searching boats, to which he 
clung for a minute, in a dangerous proximity to his foes, swimming 
with it as it was rowed forward, and hearing the crew boast that, if 
not already dead, they would soon have his heart's blood. 

Another boat soon approached this ; and as the lights of the 
second craft began to flash upon him, Wheeler saw that he could 

j remain no longer concealed where he was, and once more dove and 
went under the seventy-four, coming up on the other side. Here 
again he was not safe, for another boat was rowing from stern to 
bow ; and determined now to be free or die in the attempt, he silently 
but swiftly struck out toward a schooner at some distance, whose 

i light was faintly gleaming over the rough waves. 

This last attempt at life and liberty fortune seemed disposed to 
favor ; and to his great joy the poor fugitive soon heard the gruff" 
voices of his pursuers growing fainter and more faint behind him. 




MCg 



THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON-SHIP. 

Onward he pressed, buffeting the rough waves, and thanking God 
for the driving storm that in a measure was shielding his flight. He 
now for the first time felt some pain in his shoulder, and he knew 
that his blood was mingling with the briny waters ; but the hope of 
freedom made him buoyant, and he pressed forward to new perils 
with a comparatively light heart. 

At length he reached the schooner, and finding a small boat 
alongside, noiselessly crawled into it, and stretched himself out to 

rest. He had not lain long, when he 
became conscious 
that his shoulder 
and arm were 
swelling and grow- 
ing stiff; and as it 
9 was necessary for 
his safety that he 
: ^ should reach the 

r -^^ shore during the 

WHEELEK AND HIS ppRsuEKs. olght, and bcUeving 

that every moment's delay would render the attempt more difficult, 
he resolved to re-commit himself to the waters immediately, and 
swim while he could. 

Half an hour later, more dead than alive, he crawled up the side 
of a pier, and again laid himself down to rest. As soon as he felt he 
had recovered sufficient strength for the further task, he got upon 
his feet and hurried forward toward the lights of the town, hoping to 
find some friendly shelter, where he might remain concealed till all 
search for him should be over, when it was his design to ship on 
board some foreign trader, and thus get clear of the country. 



THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON-SHIP. 239 

While animated with this hope, and just as he had begun to hasten 
along one of the darker streets of the city, a man suddenly sprung 
out from the corner of a building, clapped one hand roughly on his 
shoulder, flashed a light in his face with the other, and in a gruff 
tone demanded his name and business, where he came from and 
whither he was going. All this was so sudden and unexpected, and 
took the fugitive so completely off his guard, that he began to 
stammer, he knew not what, and quickly broke down in confusion. 

"Unless I'm greatly mistaken," said the watchman, for such he 

was, "you're one of the Yankee prisoners just escaped from the 

prison-ship, and I'll just lock you up till morning and see." 

" Oh, if that's all, I've not the least objection to your satisfying 
yourself on that score," replied Wheeler, who had now recovered his 
presence of mind, and got all his wits to work. 

" Wounded, too — all bloody here — shot, as I live !" pursued the 
other, holding up his lantern. " Thought I heard firing awhile ago. 
Yes, you're the man I want." 

"And there's another you want just behind you," said Wheeler. 

The watchman turned to see who was alluded to, and at the same 
instant received a trip and a blow from Wheeler, that sent him 
sprawling into the gutter. Almost the next moment he v/as upon 
his feet, in pursuit of the now flying fugitive, giving the signal of 
alarm, and shouting "Stop thief! stop thief!" at the top of his 
I lungs. 

Fortunately for our hero, there was a dark, narrow street, or lane, 
close at hand, and into this he turned, and bounded forward with 
the speed of a deer, the enraged watchman shouting and following, 
and every moment losing ground in the chase. This street, not a 
long one, was completely deserted, and with no obstruction before 
him, the young man felt certain of escaping the enemy behind, but 



240 THRILLING ESCAPE FROM A PRISON-SHIP. 

the shouts of his pursuer were now beginning to be answered from 
difierent quarters, and to his chagrin he perceived that his only safety 
would be in sudden concealment. This was fearfully apparent when, 
shortly after, a party of men entered the street at the other end, and 
came hurrying down to meet him. He could not hope to pass them 
if he continued forward, and if he turned back, it would be to 
encounter the watchman and several others who were joining him. 
His only alternative seemed to be to draw himself up in the jut of 
some doorway, and take the chances of the nearest party hurrying 
past without discovering him ; and instantly adopting this plan, he 
bounded up to a door, and to his joyful surprise, found it slightly 
ajar. Pressed by the danger without, he did not stop to consider 
the perils within, but pushed at once into a dark passage, softly 
closing the door behind him. Then hurrying along the passage till 
he came to a flight of stairs, he went bounding up these, two at a 
time, but scarcely had he reached the second story, when the door 
was burst open with a shout, and he heard the steps of several men 
entering the building in hot pursuit. 

His situation was now critical in the extreme, and for the first 
time he experienced a feeling of despair take possession of his soul ; 
but mentally repeating the old proverb, '' while there is life there is 
hope," he hurried around through a dark entry to another flight of 
stairs, and was soon at the top of these. Another similar effort 
landed him in the fourth story, and then he bethought him of the 
roof. Luckily he had not to grope long before his hand rested upon 
a ladder, that led up to a trap-door ; and in less than a minute he 
was hurrying over the roof, hearing his pursuers clamoring below 
him, both in the street and in the building. 

Over the roofs of several buildings the daring fellow now hastened, 
till he came to one considerably below the others, when, without a 



THRILLING ESCAPE PROM A PRISON- SIHP. 



241 




moment's hesitation, lie lowered himself by his hands and dropped 
quietly down upon it. So remarkable had been his escapes thus far, 

that hope now revived; and 

greatly increased when, 

on tafving hold of a 

trap-door at his 

1 feet, he found it un- 

fastened. Without 

a thought as to 

where his present 

p descent might 

lead, he swung him- 

^ „, self down into a 

THE FtTGITIVE ESCAPES IN I-EMALE DISGCISE. 

kind of cock-loft, and secured the trap by hooks on the under side. 
This done, he breathed freer, and sat down to think and rest. A 
voice now reached him ; and after listening to it a short time, he 
became satisfied it was that of a woman praying. This gave him 
fresh hope— for to a true Christian woman he believed a distressed 
fugitive would not have to appeal in vain, and he at once resolved 
to see her and tell her all. 

It was so dark where he was that nothing whatever could be seen, 
and so he began to grope about for the second trap-door, through 
which to descend from the loft to the upper story. In attempting 
to find this, he slipped from the joists over which he was crawling, 
and, falling upon some weak laths, went through them v/ith a crash, 
and, with a large body of plastering, came down upon a bed in the 
room below. The female, w^hose voice he had heard, was kneeling 
beside the bed, and was so frightened at the appearance of a bloody 
man in such a strange manner, that, clasping her hands and uttering 
a sort of suppressed shriek, she swooned away. 
16 



242 THE RIFLEMAN OF CHIPPEWA. 

Here was a new adventure and new danger — but Isaac Wheeler 
was equal to the occasion. Perceiving a closet full of female cloth- 
ing, he at once resolved upon an effective disguise ; and in ten 
minutes he was leaving the still unconscious woman, dressed in her 
own apparel, and carrying his own sailor garments in a bundle. He 
went boldly down two flights of stairs, passed several rooms occupied 
by lodgers, and reached the street without molestation, where he 
beheld quite a crowd collected in front of the building in which he 
sought refuge. Taking a contrary direction, he moved off without 
suspicion, and in the course of an hour was far from the scene of 
danger. A sum of money which he found in the woman's dress, 
enabled him to pay his way and escape too close a scrutiny ; and 
traveling on foot to another seaport, he took passage for one of the 
German States, and thus secured the liberty for which he had risked 
his life. 

After the declaration of peace, Isaac "VVheeler returned to his 
native land, and astonished his friends with an account of his 
adventures. He subsequently became master of a vessel, and 
acquired a competency. After a lapse of years, he sought out the 
woman he had so strangely robbed, and made her ample restitution 
for her loss. In the year 1845 he fell a victim to the yellow fever 
at Havana, leaving a handsome property to his relatives. 



THE KIFLEMAN OF CHIPPEWA. 

At the time of the French and Indian Wars, the American army 
was encamped on the Plains of Chippewa near the head waters of 
the Mississippi. Colonel St. Clair, the commander, was a brave 
and meritorious officer, but his bravery sometimes amounted to 



THE RIFLEMAN OF CHIPPEWA. 



243 



rashness, and his enemies have accused him of indiscretion. In the 

present instance perhaps he may have merited the accusation, for 

the plain on 

which he had 

encamped was 

bordered by a 

dense forest, 

from 




THE RIFLEMAN SOLVING THE MYSTEET. 



the Indian scouts could easily pick off his sentinels without in the 
least exposing themselves to danger. 

Five nights had passed, and every night the sentmel who stood at 
a lonely outpost in the vicinity of the forest had been shot ; and 
these repeated disasters struck such dread aniong the remaining 
soldiers, that no one would come forward to offer to take the post, 
and the commander, knowing it was only throwing away men's 
lives, let it stand for a few nights unoccupied. 

At length a rifleman of the Virginia corps volunteered his ser- 
vices for this dangerous duty ; he laughed at the fears of his com- 
panions, and told them he meant to return safe and drink his com- 
mander's health in the morning. The guard marched up soon after, 
and he shouldered his rifle and fell in. He arrived at the place 
which had been so fatal to his comrades, and bidding his fellow 



244 THE RirLEMAN OP CHIPPEWA. 

soldiers " good night," assumed the duties of his post. The night 
was darlv, thick clouds overspread the firmament, and hardly a star 
could be seen by the sentinel as he paced* his lonely walk. All was 
silent except the gradually retreating footsteps of the guard : he 
marched onwards, then stopped and listened till he thought he heard 
the joyful sound of " All's well" — then all was still, and he sat down 
on a fallen tree and began to muse. Presently a low rustling among 
the bushes caught his ear; he gazed intently toward the spot 
whence the sound seemed to proceed, but he could see nothing save 
the impenetrable gloom of the forest. The sound drew nearer, and 
a well-known grunt informed him of the approach of a bear. The 
animal passed the soldier slowly, and then quietly sought the thicket 
to the left. 

At this moment the moon shone out bright through the parting 
clouds, and the wary soldier perceived the ornamented moccasin of 
a savage on what an instant before he believed to be a bear ! He 
could have shot him in a moment, but he knew not how many other 
such animals might be at hand ; he therefore refrained, > and having 
perfect knowledge of Indian subtilty, he quickly took off his hat and 
coat, hung them on a branch of the fallen tree, grasped his rifle, and 
silently crept toward the thicket. He had barely reached it, when 
an arrow, whizzing past his head, told him of the danger he had so 
narrowly escaped. 

He looked carefully around him, and on a little spot of cleared 
land he counted twelve Indians, some sitting, some lying full length 
on the thickly strewn leaves of the forest. Believing that they had 
already shot the sentinel, and little thinking there was any one 
within hearing, they were quite off their guard, and conversed aloud 
about their plans for the morrow 

It appeared that a council of twelve chiefs was now held, in which 



THE RIFLEMAN OP CHIPPEWA. 245 

they gravely deliberated ou the most effectual means of annoying 
the enemy. It was decided that the next evening forty of their 
warriors should be in readiness at the hour when the sentinel should 
be left by his comrades, and that when they had retired a few paces, 
an arrow should silence him forever, and they would then rush on 
and massacre the guard. 

This being concluded, they rose, and drawing the numerous folds 
of their ample robes closer round them, they marched off in Indian 
file through the gloomy forest, seeking some more distant spot, where 
the smoke of their nightly fire would not be observed by the white 
men. 

The sentinel rose from his hiding place, returned to his post, and 
taking down his hat, found that an arrow had passed clean through 
it. He then wrapped himself in his watch-coat, and returned 
immediately to the camp ; and without any delay demanded to speak 
to the commander, saying that he had something important to 
communicate. 

He was admitted, and when he had told all that he had seen and 
heard, the Colonel bestowed on him the commission of lieutenant of 
the Virginia corps, which had been vacant by the death of one of 
his unfortunate comrades a few nights back, and ordered him to be 
ready with a picket guard, to march an hour earlier than usual to 
the fatal outpost, there to place a hat and coat on the branches, 
and then lie in ambush for the intruders. 

The following evening, according to the orders given by Colonel 
St. Clair, a detachment of forty riflemen, with Lieutenant Morgan at 
their head, marched from the camp at half-past seven in the evening 
toward the appointed spot, and having arranged the hat and coat 
so as to have the appearance of a soldier standing on guard, they 
stole silently away and bid themselves among tlie bushes. 



246 



THE RIFLEMAN OP CHIPPEWA. 





^^:^r^^C:^^ 




THE DISGUISED INDIAN AND THE SHAM SENTINEL. 



Here they lay for almost an hour before any signs of approaching 
Indians were heard. The night was cold and still, and the rising 

moon shone forth 
in all her beauty. 
The men were be- 
coming impatient of 
their uncomfortable 
situation, for their 
clothes were not so 
well adapted to a 
bed of snow as the 
deer-skin robes of 
the hardy Chip- 
pewas. 

"Silence !" whispered Lieutenant Morgan, " I hear the rustling of 
the leaves." 

Presently a bear of the same description as had been seen the 
night before, passed near the ambush ; it crept to the edge of the 
plain — reconnoitred — saw the sentinel a this post — retired toward 
the forest a few paces, and then suddenly rising on his feet, let fly 
an arrow which brought the sham sentinel to the ground. So 
impatient were the Virginians to avenge the death of their comrades, 
that they could scarcely wait till the lieutenant gave the word of 
command to fire — then they rose in a body, and before the Chip- 
pewas had time to draw their arrows or seize their tomahawks, more 
than half their number lay dead upon the plain. The rest fled to 
the forest, but the riflemen fired again, and killed or wounded 
several more of the enemy. They then returned in triumph to relate 
their exploits in the camp. 



THE HORSE STEALERS OP ILLINOIS. 



24t 



Ten chiefs fell that night, and their fall was, undoubtedly, one 
principal cause of the French and Indian wars with the English. 

Lieutenant Morgan rose to be 
captain, and at the termination 
the war returned home, and lived 
his own farm till the breaking 
out of the American war. 
And then, at the head of a 
corps of Virginia riflemen, 
appeared our hero, the brave 
and gallant Colonel Morgan, 
better known by the title of 
General, which he soon ac- 
quired by his courage and 
ability. 




THE SENTINELS REVENGED. 



THE HORSE STEALERS OP ILLINOIS-A LAWYER'S 
STORY. 

About three or four years ago, more or less, while I was practicing ■ 
law in Illinois, on a pretty large circuit, I was called on one day in 
my ofl&ce by a very pretty woman, who, not without tears, told me 
that her husband had been arrested for horse stealing. She wished 
to retain me on the defence. I asked her why she did not go to 
Judge R., ex-Senator of the United States, whose office was in that 
town, I told her that I was a young man at the bar. She mourn- 
fully said that he had asked a retaining fee beyond her means, 
besides, he did not want to touch the case, for her husband was 
suspected of belonging to an extensive band of thieves and counter- 
feiters, whose head quarters were on Moore's prairie. 

I asked her to tell me the whole truth of the matter, and if it was 
true that her husband did belong to such a band. 



248 



THE HORSE STEALERS OP ILLINOIS. 



" Ah, sir," said she, " a better man at heart than my George never 
lived, but he liked cards and drink, and I am afraid they made him 

do what he never 
H I -' I feS^ ' ^oiild have done if 



he had not drank. 
I fear it can be 




THE LAWYER AND THE CRIMINAL S WIFE. 



proved that he had the horse ; he didn't steal it, another stole it and 
passed it to him. 

I didn't like the case. I knew there was a great dislike to the 
gang located where she named, and I feared to risk the case before 
a jury. She seemed to observe my intention to refuse the case, and 
burst into tears. 

I never could see a woman weep without feeling like a weak fool 
myself. If it hadn't been eyes brightened by " pearly tears," (blast 
the poet that made them come into fashion by praising 'em !) I'd 
never have been caught in the lasso of matrimony. My would-be 
client was pretty. The handkerchief that hid her streaming eyes 
didn't hide her ripe lips ; and her snowy bosom rose and fell like a 
white gull in a gale of wind at sea, I took the case, and she gave 
me the particulars. 



i'i 



THE HORSE STEALERS OP ILLINOIS. 249 

The gang, of which he was not a member, had persuaded him to 
take the horse. He knew that it was stolen, and like a fool 
acknowledged it when he was arrested. Worse still, he had trimmed 
the horse's tail and mane to alter his appearance, and the opposition 
could prove it. 

The trial came up. I worked hard to get a jury of ignorant men, 
who had more heart than brains, who, if they could not fathom the 
depths of argument, or follow the labyrinthine mazes of law, 
could feel for a young fellow in a bad fix, a weeping pretty wife, 
nearly heart broken, and quite distracted. 

Knowing the use of " effect," I told her to dress in deep mourning, 
and bring her little cherub of a boy, only three years old, into court, 
and sit as near the husband as the officers would let her. I tried 
the game once in a murder case, and a weeping wife and sister made 
a jury render a verdict against law, evidence and the judge's charge, 
and saved a fellow that ought to be hung as high as Haman. 

The prosecution opened very bitterly, and inveighed against 
thieves and counterfeiters who had made the land a terror to 
strangers and travelers, and who had robbed every farmer in the 
region of his finest horses. It produced witnesses and proved all 
and more than I feared it would. The time came for me to rise for 
the defense. Witness, I had none. But I determined to make an 
effort, only hoping so to interest the jury, as to secure a recommen- 
dation to gubernatorial clemency and light sentence. 

So I painted his picture. A young man entering into life wedded 
to an angel ; beautiful in person, possessing every noble and gentle 
attribute. Temptation lay before and all around him. He kept a 
tavern. Guests, there were many ; it was not for him to inquire 
their business ; they dressed well, made large bills and paid 
promptly ; at an unguarded hour, when he was insane with liquor, 



250 



THE HORSE STEALERS OF ILLINOIS. 




RUNNING OFF A STOLEN HORSE. 



they urged upon him ; he deviated from the path of rectitude. The 
demon alcohol reigned in his brain, and it was his first offence. 

Mercy pleaded for another 
chance to save him from 
ruin ; justice did not require 
that his young wife should 
go down sorrowing to the 
grave, and that the shadow 
and taunt of a felon father 
should cross the path of that 
sweet child, 0, how earnest- 
ly did I plead for them ! The 
woman wept ; the husband 
did the same ; the jury 
looked melting. If I could have had the closing speech, he would 
have been cleared ; but the prosecution had the close, and threw ice 
on the fire I had kindled. But they did not put it quite out. 

The judge charged according to law and evidence, but evidently 
leaned on the side of mercy. The jury found a verdict of guilty, but 
recommended the prisoner to the mercy of the court. My client 
was sentenced to the shortest imprisonment the court was em- 
powered to give, and both jury and court signed a petition to the 
governor for an unconditional pardon, which has since been granted, 
but not before the following incident occurred. 

Some three months after this I received an account for collection 
from a wholesale house in New York. The parties to collect from 
were hard ones ; but they had property, and before they had an idea 
of the trap laid, I had the property, which they were about to assign 
before they broke, under attachment. Finding I was a neck ahead 
and bound to win, they " caved in" and forked over $3,794.18 (per 



THE HORSE STEALERS OF ILLINOIS. 251 

memorandum book) in good money. They lived in Shawneetown 
about thirty-five or forty miles southeast of Moore's prairie. I re- 
ceived the funds just after the bank opening, but other business 
detained me till after dinner. I then started for C. intending to go 
as far as the village of Mount Yernon that night. 

I had gone along ten or twelve miles, when I noticed a splendid 
team of double horses attached to a light wagon, in which were 
seated four men, evidently of the higher strung order. They swept 
past as if to show how easily they could do it. They shortened in 
and allowed me to come up with them, and hailing me asked me to 
" wet," or in other words, diminish the contents of a jug of old rye 
they had aboard, but I excused myself, with the plea that I had 
plenty on board. They asked me how far I was going. I told them 
as far as Mount Yernon, if my horse didn't tire out. They men- 
tioned a pleasant tavern ten miles ahead as a nice stopping-place, 
and then drove on. 

I did not like the looks of those fellows nor their actions. But I 
was bound to go ahead. I had a brace of revolvers and a nice 
knife ; my money was not in a valise or my sulkey, but in my belt 
around my body. I drove slow in hopes they would go on, and I 
should see them no more. It was nearly dark when I saw their 
wagon standing at the door. I would have passed on but my horse 
needed rest. I hauled up and a woman came to the door. She 
turned pale as a sheet when she saw me. She did not speak, but 
with a meaning look she put her finger on her lip and beckoned me 
in. She was the wife of my late client. 

When I entered the party recognised me, hailed me as an old 
traveling friend, and asked me to drink. I respectfully but firmly 
declined to do so. 
" " But you shall drink or fight !" said the noisiest of the party. 



252 THE HORSE STEALERS OP ILLINOIS. 

"Just as you please, drink I shall not?" said I, purposely showing 
the butt of a Colt, which kicks six times in rapid succession. 

The others interposed and very easily quieted my opponent. One 
offered me a cigar, which I should not have received, but a glance 
of the woman induced me to accept it. She advanced and proffered 
me a light, and in doing so, slipped a note into my hand, which she 
must have written with a pencil the moment before. Never shall I 
forget the words — they were : 

" Beware — they are members of the gang. They mean to rob and 
murder you. Leave soon. I will manage to detam them." 

I did not feel comfortable just then, but tried to look so. 

" Have you any room to put up my horse ?" I asked turning to 
the woman. 

" What, are you not going on to-night ?" asked one of the men, 
" we are." 

" No !" said I, " I shall stay here to-night." 

" We'll all stay, then, I guess, and make a night of it," said one 
of the cut-throats. 

" You'll have to put up your own hoss — here's a lantern," said the 
woman. 

" I am used to that," I said. " Gentlemen, excuse me a minute, 
I'll join you in a drink when I come in." 

*' Good on your head ! More whiskey, old gal," shouted they. 

I went out and glanced at their wagon : it was old-fashioned, and 
linch-pins secured the wheels. To take out my knife and pry one 
from the fore and hind wheels was but the work of an instant, and I 
threw them into the darkness as far as I could. To untie my horse 
and dash off was but the work of a moment. The road lay down a 
steep hill, but my lantern lighted me somewhat. 

I had hardly got under full headway, when T heard a yell from 



SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS. 253 

the party I had so unceremoniously left. I put whip to my horse. 
The next moment they started. I threw my light away and left my 
horse to pick his road. A moment later, I heard a crash — a horri- 
ble shriek. The wheels were off. Then came the rush of the horses 
tearing along with the wreck of the wagon. Finally they seemed to 
fetch up in the woods. One or two shrieks I heard, as I swept on 
leaving them far behind. For some time, I hurried my horse — you'd 
better believe " I rid." It was a little after midnight when I got to 
Mount Yernon. 

The next day I heard that Moore's prairie team had run away, 
and two men out of four had been so badly hurt that their lives had 
been despaired of; but I did not cry. My clients got their money, 
but I didn't travel that road any more. 



SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS— AN INCIDENT OP THE 
MEXICAN WAR. 

It was while our army was in quiet possession of the city of 
Monterey, that one morning I had made my regular visit to my almost 
vacated hospital, and returning to my quarters in the calle del obispo, 
had ordered my horse, with the intention of joining a friend in a 
ride to Arista's garden, and the heights of the Bishop's palace. My 
gallant little " Hacaneo," a native of the mountain breed, from 
Durango, and one of the finest animals I had met with in the country, 
was giving expression to his impatience of restraint by furiously 
pawing the pavement of the court, and making the place ring with 
his loud neighing. 

As I was about to throw myself into the saddle, having my hand 
upon the mane of my restless steed, and one foot in the stirrup, I 
felt a hand laid gently on my shoulder, and as I turned my head, the 



254 



SURPRISED RY GUERILLAS. 



good-natured face of my friend, and frequent guide, Jose Maria 
Luna, met my eye. 




THE REQUEST OF MY FRIEND AND GUIDE. 

"A very good day, Senor Doctor," said he, displaying, in Lis 
cheerful smile, a mouth full of regularly arranged, and brilliantly 
•white teeth, a feature for which his countrymen are remarkable. 
" Where do you ride ?" continued he, while his earnest countenance 
expressed a good deal of interest in the question. 

"Only for apasear," (pleasure ride,) I replied. " What can I do 
for you, Jose ?" 

" Oh ! much, Senor," he answered ; and then turning to a tall 
countryman of the poblano class, who stood by his side, — " Senor 
Doctor," said he, "this is my cousin and compadre, (untranslatable 
— somewhat equivalent to an adopted brother,) who comes from the 
village of Guajuca, (pronounced WahuJcah,) which is the home of my 
old father. He now lies dangerously sick, and has dispatched 



SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS. 255 

Gabrielo to me, to beg the attendance of my good friend, the 
American Medico." 

" What is the distance, Jose ?" I inquired. 

" Oh ! Senor, it is only a short ride with that noble little fellow of 
yours — ^just a pleasant pasear — no more than ten leagues." 

As I was under some heavy obligations to Jose, who had twice 
saved my life, I consented to accompany him, and we were soon 
dashing away over the country. 

We had passed a number of considerable villages ; and I observed 
that contrary to my usual experience, there were no men to be seen ; 
and the women, on our application for refreshments for ourselves 
and horses, invariably met us with a shrug of the shoulder, and the 
cold and repelling reply : 

" No hainada, nadita senoresP' (We have nothing, not any thing, 
sirs,) at the same time making a significant motion with the fore- 
finger toward me — a motion intended only for the eyes of my com- 
panions. This unfriendly conduct, so different from that I had been 
accustomed to, was explained by a printed proclamation which Jose 
slipped into my hand, and on reading which I saw, to my great 
surprise, that the blood-thirsty Canales had ordered every Mexican 
to join the native army, and commanded that no quarter should be 
shown to any American who should in any manner fall into their 
hands. 

" How is it," said I to Jose, as I finished reading this precious 
document, " that you and Gabrielo are not also enrolled in the troop 
of this cut-throat governor ?" 

" Oh ! Senor, you don't know our little general as we do. Very few 
well-disposed people will be governed by this terrible proclamation. 
The rancheros will be kept out of sight for a few days, and every 
body will be a little shy. But, though our fighting governor will 



256 



SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS. 



take the field with his guerillas, his forces will not be much increased. 
He is more robber than soldier or statesman, and more coward than 
either. I should pity the poor Americano, however, who might fall 
into his hands. But here, Senor Doctor, is Guajuca ;" and spurring 
up our horses, a turn in the road brought us into the now deserted 
streets of the village. Halting before a respectable looking building, 
havmg a long, low verandah in front, the Mexican dismounted, and 
taking my bridle, welcomed me, with the usual Spanish compliments, 
to his father's house. We were kindly received at the door by two 
dark-eyed, smiling senoritas, the sisters of Jose. Within we found 
the invaUd for whose sake we had performed the journey. He was 
lying upon a cowhide cot, surrounded by a little group of sympa- 
thizing women. n our entrance, however, they respectfully withdrew 
from the side of the sick man, to make room for Jose and myself. 

I had examined my patient, who was afflicted with a chronic 
disease of the stomach, had made my prescriptions, and given the 

necessary directions for his after 
treatment, when I was invited to 
another apartment, where was 
prepared an excel- 
lent dinner, of 
which, at this ad- 
vanced hour, I 
greatly felt the 
S need ; having eaten 
nothing since pre- 
vious to leaving my 
pREscKiBiNG FOR THE INVALID FATHER. ouartcrs carlv in 

the day. The long and rapid ride, together with the pure mountain 
air, had sharpened my appetite to a keen edge ; but, as I was sitting 
down to the fragrant meal, the outer door was suddenly thrown open, 




SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS. 257 

and Jose, panting with excitement, and unable to articulate, made 
his appearance. Grasping me by the arm, and pointing toward a 
door opening to the r,ear of the house, he hurried me into the garden 
beyond ; and with rapid strides, pushing me before him, entered a 
thick copse of pomegranate and lime trees at the farther end 
of the enclosure. 

Not till we were completely screened from sight by the luxuriant 
foliage, did he attempt to speak ; and then in a hurried and agitated 
whisper, informed me that a party of guerillas had just encamped in 
the village, and had been made aware of the presence of an Ameri- 
can officer in the place. 

The words had scarcely escaped his lips when we perceived that 
the house and garden were filling with armed men 

" They are already on our track," exclaimed the excited Mexican. 
Then laying his hand upon my arm, as I was about to draw my re- 
volver from my belt, he continued, " We had better surrender at dis- 
cretion, for if we attempt to defend ourselves they will kill us upon 
the spot." 

" At all events," I replied, '* they shall not have my life without 
taking with it the contents of this revolver." 

While we were speaking, I could perceive that the yelling crew had 
encircled, the spot, where, hke hunted beasts, we had taken cover, 
and were closing in upon us, with their carbines directed toward the 
copse, as it fearful that, like lions at bay, we might spring upon 
them and dash them to the earth. 

Closer and closer those hunters of human prey gathered around 
us, when my companion, seeing there was no possibility of escape, 
motioning me to remain quiet, stepped boldly out from the cover of 
the thickets, and hailing the guerillas, proposed to surrender, and 
begged for quarters. 
17 



258 



SURPRISED BY GUERILLx\S. 



"Kill the traitor! Death to the friend of the inaldito America- 
nos V (accursed Americans,) shouted a score of bloodthirsty throats, 
and at the same time the thicket was torn and riddled by carbine 
shots. I remained unhurt, but turning toward my poor friend, I 
saw him stretched upon the ground, his white camissa stained 
with a purple flood gushing from his shoulder. 

This sight heated my own rapidly pulsating blood, and regardless 
of the crowd now rushing toward me, I sprang from the friendly 

shelter, and standing over the 
insensible body of the Mexican, 
I poured into the cowardly rab- 
""^ ble shot after shot from my 
revolver. Three or four .of 
the foremost fell bleeding to 
;\\ the ground, and the others, 
like wolves frightened from 
their prey, rushed in confu- 
sion toward the house. 

At this moment I per- 
ceived entering the garden, 
from the dwelling, a dark-faced, villainous-looking Mexican, gaudily 
dressed in a suit of blue uniform, covered with gold lace and tinsel. 
He advanced pompously toward his retreating crew, and waving a 
heavy sabre, shouted to them to renew the attack. 

" El "Jefe I El JcfeV (the General — the General !) exclaimed the 
guerillas ; and rallying again, discharged another volley of bullets 
into the thicket, to which I had retired to reload my weapon. As 
before, I remained uninjured, for, stooping in the hurried act of re- 
charging my pistol, the shots all passed over me, having no other 
effect than to shower down \v^(m my head a little tempest of leaves 




DRIVING BACK THE COWARDLY KABBLE. 



SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS. 259 

"Give him another round ! And fire low, d'ye hear! Show the 
rascally American no quarter — kill him !" yelled the cowardly and 
black-hearted Canales — for it was he. 

Seeing my hopeless and desperate condition, surrounded as I was 
by the murderous crowd, I determined to take advantage of the 
brief interval while they were engaged in reloading their carbines, 
and rush upon their cowardly leader, and revenge the death of my 
faithful Jose, as well as that of ray own, in advance, by blowing out 
his dastardly heart. I had, in fact, advanced several steps for that 
purpose, when my attention was attracted by a crowd of females, 
who, led on by the two dark-eyed sisters of my poor friend, forced 
their way through the guerillas, and motioning me back to the cover 
of the copse, placed themselves between the Mexicans and the body 
of Jose and myself. They formed around us a strong cordon of 
Avomen s fearless and sympathizing hearts. 

The sisters threw themselves upon the ground by the body of 
their brother, and gave vent, in wild cries, to the bitterness of their 
grief, and in imprecations upon his cowardly murderers. They had 
seen him fall by the shot of the guerillas, and hastened to cover 
his body from further indignities. They also knew that I had been 
his friend, and it was in consequence of that friendship that I had 
visited their sick parent, and thus, for them, had put myself into 
this desperate position. They therefore determined, if possible, to 
save me from that rabble, thirsting for my blood. Aware of the 
savage and cowardly character of their leader — the author of that 
murderous proclamation — these true women had thrown themselves 
as a wall, between me and inevitable death. 

The other women had gathered close around me, while the two 
sisters were staunching the still bleeding wounds of Jose. 

" He lives ! he lives ! Oh ! thanks to the Blessed Virgin, he 



260 SURPRISED BY GUERILLAS. 

lives !" whispered one to the other, as she felt the throbbing of his 
heart, and watched the regular, but rapid heaving of his breast ; 
" but for the love of Heaven, let not yonder miscreants suspect it. 
Oh ! Juana, we may yet save him !" 

Then whispering a few hurried words to her sister, she rose from 
the side of the wounded man and entered the thicket, back to which 
the women had forced me. 

In the meantime, seeing this extraordinary and unlook for in- 
terference, the guerillas, who, with all their savage natures, were by 
no means devoid of gallantry, threw up their carbines, and turning 
to their chief, awaited his further orders. 

That individual, with all the vanity of gold lace and gaudy 
feathers, was pacing pompously up and down the garden path, and 
impatiently trying the edge of his sabre upon the plants and flower 
stems within his reach. But seeing the eyes of his men turned to- 
ward him inquiringly, he exclaimed, with a vulgar oath — 

" Let those fools yonder, have their own way for a moment, but 
keep a close watch on the American. Let him not escape for your 
lives. He shall leave this place only with a lariat about his throat ! 
I have sworn to give quarter to no enemy of our glorious republic !" 
and the pompous ruffian recommenced his strides. 

Meanwhile, the elder sister approached within the cover of the 
thicket, and began, to my surprise, to hastily disrobe herself; and, 
in a mqment more, she stood before me, covered only with her under 
garments. 

" There, Senor," said she, " you must for once in your life, become a 
Mexican Senorita, and put on my dress. I can save you — but you 
have not a moment to lose. The guerillas yonder will soon be upon 
us. You must assist my sister in bearing off my poor, wounded 
brother, who yet lives. But be careful, and remember you are now 



gURPRlSED BY GUERILLAS. 261 

Carlota," continued she, as, having thrown off my coat, I mechani- 
cally obeyed her instructions, and donned the girl's dress. 

" There now," as she displaced my cap, and in room of it fastened 
her long manta over my head and face, completely covering my 
features, " even poor Jose, could he 
see you, would be cheated by the 
change. You make a very 
pretty woman, Senor," said 
she, smiling at the transfor- 
mation she had made in my 
appearance. "Now, Senor, ^ 
follow my directions and -^' 
you are safe. The shadows 
of night now gathering about 
us will favor your disguise. 
You must assist my sister ^^ "^^^^'^^ ^^ ^ "^^^"^^ ^^yo^i^K 

Juana to the house with our wounded brother, as if you were carry- 
ing his dead body. Under my father's bed you will find a loose 
plank ; raise it, and descend into the vault you will find below, and 
wait patiently for my return. And now, Senor, no awkwardness, 
and may the holy saints protect you !" 

" And you ?" I asked. 

" Oh, give yourself no thought of me ! I shall be soon with you ;" 
and she gently pushed me from the thicket. 

I followed Carlota's directions to the letter. I assisted Juana 
in conveying the wounded man through the broken circle of 
guerillas, keeping my features hid by the close folds of the manta ; 
and whatever awkwardness of gait or manner I might have exhibited 
was covered by the friendly twilight, which had now come on. We 
entered the house, and deposited the still insensiole Jose upon 




262 SURPRIS-ED BY GUERILLAS. 

a cot; then creeping beneath the sick man's bed, I descended 
into the little vault below, while Juana carefully replaced the planks, 
and pushed a heavy trunk over the spot. 

In a few moments I heard the voices of the women, who, having 
returned, were surrounding the wounded man, and filling the place 
with lamentations for his death. They accused the guerilla chief of 
being his murderer, and called upon his head the vengeance of 
heaven From my hiding-place I also heard the voices of the 
guerillas, as they searched every nook and corner of the garden for 
the maledito Americano. 

Canales raved and stormed, and swore that, unless I was found 
before morning, some of them should pay with their lives for their 
carelessness. 

1 know not how many hours I had been in the narrow vault, for 
the fatigue of my ride, my deprivation of food, and the subsequent 
excitement, together, had exhausted my strength, and T had fallen 
asleep. I was aroused by a hand laid gently on my head, and Carlota, 
with a lamp in her hand, looked down upon me from the aperture in 
the floor above. 

"Come, Senor," said she, "you must away. The rising sun must 
find you well on your way toward Monterey." 

And giving me her hand, she assisted me out of my cramping 
confinement. 

" You require food," continued the kind-hearted girl : " eat in 
haste, for Gabrielo awaits you with your horse beyond the village. 
He will also accompany you on your way." 

" But how is my poor friend ?" I asked. 

"He is alive — has asked after you — and the knowledge that you 
are safe will hasten his recovery ; but we have removed him beyond 
the reach of that bad man, who yet thinks him dead ;" and she handed 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM IIIGGINS. 



2G3 



me my coat and cap, in exchange for the disguise which I had left 
in the vault. 

Having hastily satisfied my hunger, the generous and brave 
Carlota hurried me from the house. She led me through gardens 
and over walls, to the out- ^J§\ 
skirts of the village, 
where we found 
Gabrielo, who, 
jnounted on his 
own horse, was 
holding by the 
bridle my gal- 
lant little Hacaneo. 
The faithful animal 
welcomed my ap- 
proach with a low 
whinny of recognition ; and after kissing the hand of my brave, noble- 
hearted deliverer, and acknowledging the immense debt I owed her, 
I bounded^lntothe saddle, and rode rapidly away from the place. 

The sun was high when we reached the city ; and many weeks 
elapsed before my faithful Jose and myself had an opportunity to 
congratulate each other upon our almost miraculous escape from 
death at the hands of the blood-thirsty Canales. 




MY APIEIT TO THE BRAVE CARLOTA. 



■WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 

During the war of 1812, Tom Higgins, as he was called by his 
comrades, enlisted in the Rangers — a company of mounted men, 
organized expressly for the purpose of protecting the inhabitants of 



264 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 



the western frontier. He was one of a party of twelve men, com- 
manded by Lieutenant Journey, and posted at Hill's Station, a 




BURGESS BEGGING TOM NOT TO LEAVE HIM. 

small stockade fort, about three miles south of where the village of 
Greenville, Illinois, now stands, and about twenty miles from Van- 
dalia, neither of which towns were then settled, the whole country, 
for miles around, being nothing but a vast wilderness. 

On the 30th of August, 1814, signs of Indians were seen about 
half a mile from the fort, and at night the savages were discovered 
prowling around, but no alarm was given. Early on the following 
mormng. Lieutenant Journey, with a part of his men, started in pur- 
suit of the Indians. Passing around a field of corn which adjoined 
the fort, they crossed the prairie, and had proceeded but a short 
distance, when, in crossing a ridge, closely covered with a hazel 
thicket, in full view of the fort, they fell into an ambuscade of a 
large party of Indians, numbering some seventy or eighty, who sud- 
denly rose around them and fired, killing four of the party, among 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 265 

whom was Lieutenant Journey, and badly wounding another ; the 
rest fled, with the exception of Higgins. 

The morning of a sultry day was just beginning to dawn. A 
heavy dew had fallen the preceding night, and the air was still 
humid, causing the smoke from the guns to hang in heavy clouds 
over the spot ; and under cover of these clouds the remammg com- 
panions of Higgins had escaped, believing that all who were left 
were dead, or that at any rate it would be useless to attempt to 
rescue them from such superior numbers. Tom's horse had fallen 
upon his knees several times, and believing him to be severely 
wounded, he dismounted; but upon examination he found he was 
only shot in the neck, and not seriously disabled ; he still retained 
his hold on the bridle, and as he now felt sure of being able to re- 
treat in safety, he determined to have one more shot at the savages 
to avenge his comrades. He looked around for a shelter, but could 
see only one small elm, for which he started ; just at that moment 
the smoke lifted, disclosing to his view a number of Indians, who 
had not yet discovered him. One of them stood only a few paces 
from him, loading his gun. Tom instantly raised his gun to his 
shoulder, and taking deliberate aim, fired, and brought him to the 
ground. Being still concealed by the smoke, he reloaded his gun, 
mounted his horse, and turned to fly ; when a faint voice hailed him 
with, " Tom, you won't leave me, will you ?" 

On looking round to see from whom the voice proceeded, he dis- 
covered it to be one of his comrades named Burgess, who was 
wounded, lying on the ground, and unable to move ; he instantly 
replied, " No, I'll not leave you ; come along, and I'll take care of 
you." " I can't come," replied Burge?s, " my Ion: is smashed all to 
pieces." 

Higgins sprang from his saddle, and finding his ankle bone broken, 



2G6 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 



took him in his arms and attempted to put him on his horse, telling 
him at the same time to make the best of his way to the fort. But 
the horse taking fright at the same instant, started off, leaving 
Tom and his wounded comrade behind. Still Tom's coolness and 
bravery did not desert him, and setting Burgess down, he said, 
"Now, my good fellow, you must hop off on three legs, while I stay 
between you and the Indians, to keep them off," giving him instruc- 
tions at the same time, to get into the highest grass, and keep as 
close to the ground as possible. 

Burgess followed his advice, and escaped unnoticed to the fort. 
The clouds of smoke still hung thick around Higgins, hiding him 
from the enemy ; and, as he plunged through it, he left it, with the 
ridge and the hazel thicket between him and the Indians. He was 
retreating unobserved by them, and if he had taken a direct course 
toward the fort, might easily have effected his escape. But his friend 
was slowly crawling away in that direction, and the noble fellow, 
after coolly surveying the whole ground, saw, that if he pursued the 

same course, and should be dis- 
covered, his friend, being unable 
to defend himself, would most 
"^N, likely be sacrificed. 
"^ He therefore deter- 
mined to take a 
circuitous route, 
and by drawing at- 
tention to himself, 
save his friend. 

Carrying out his 
desij^n, he moved 




TOM FELL, BUT INSTANTLY ROSE AGAIN AND RAN. 



stealthily tlirough the bushes, intending, when he emerged, to run at 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 267 

full speed. But as he left the thicket, he discovered a large Indian 
near him, and two others between himself and the fort. Tom stood 
coolly surveying his foes, and considering the best course to pursue 
under existing circumstances. Although confident in his own 
powers, but surrounded with enemies, he still considered it necessary 
to act with caution ; and wishing to separate them, he started at full 
speed for a ravine not far off, but soon found he should be unable to 
reach it, from the effect of the wound in one of his legs, which until 
now he had scarcely noticed. The largest Indian was close upon 
his heels, and Tom turned several times to fire, but the Indian would 
stop and dance about to spoil his aim. Tom was aware he could not 
afiford to lose a shot by firing at random. The other two were now 
fast coming up with him, and he found that unless he could dispose 
of the larger one he must inevitably be overpowered. He therefore 
stopped, determined to receive a fire. Facing his foe, he watched 
his eye, and the Indian, raising his gun, tired ; but Tom, cool and 
wary, just as he thought his finger touched the trigger, suddenly 
threw his side to him, and by this means probably saved his life ; 
for the ball, which would otherwise have entered his body, was 
lodged m his thigh. 

Tom fell, but instantly rose again and ran ; and the largest Indian, 
now certain of his prey, loaded again, and with the two others, 
started in pursuit. They soon came up with Tom, who had again 
fallen, and as he rose they all fired, lodging three balls in his body. 
Being now weak from loss of blood and great exertions, he fell and 
rose again several times, when the Indians, throwing away their 
guns, rushed upon him with spears and knives, but at his presenting 
his gun at one or the other of them, they fell back ; until the largest, 
probably thinking, from Tom's reserving his fire so long, that his 
gun was unloaded, boldly rushed up to him; when Tom, with a 
steady aim, fired and shot hira dead. 



268 WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 

Almost any other man, under like circumstances, with four bullets 
in his body, and an empty gun in his hands, would have given up in 
despair. But Tom Higgins had not the slightest idea of it. The 
largest and most formidable of the three was now out of his way, 
and of the other two he had but little fear, having seen from their 
eyes that he was their superior in courage and coolness. He there- 
fore faced them, and began loading his rifle. They raised their 
whoop and rushed on him. In telling the story, Tom said, " They 
kept their distance as long as my rifle was loaded, but when they 
knew it was empty they were braver soldiers." 

A fierce and bloody conflict now ensued. The Indians, rushing 
upon Tom, stabbed him in many places ; but, fortunately for him, 
their spears were nothing but small green poles, cut hastily for the 
occasion, and bent whenever the point came in contact with Tom's 
ribs, or one of his tough muscles. In consequence of his continued 
exertions with his hands and rifle in wardmg off their thrusts, the 
wounds were not deep, but his chest, and indeed his whole front, was 
covered with gashes, the scars of which always remained, in proof 
of his courage and skill. 

At last one of them threw his hatchet, the edge of which struck 
him in his cheek, passing through the ear, which it severed, laying 
bare his skull to the back of his head, and stretching him on the 
ground. The Indians rushed in, but Tom, cool as ever, was still 
enough for them, and kept them off with his feet and hands until he 
at length succeeded in grasping one of their spears, which, as the 
Indian attempted to withdraw, aided him to rise ; and, clubbing his 
rifle, he struck the nearest of his foes and dashed out his brains ; in 
doing which he broke the stock, leaving nothing in his hands but 
the barrel. The other Indian, having until now fought with much 
caution — probably considering his character as a warrior at stake, 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS, 



269 



ana that to run from a man badly wounded, and almost entirely dis- 
armed, or to suffer him to escape, would subject him to the ridicule 
of his tribe — uttered a horrid yell, rushed on, and attempted to stab 
the almost exhausted soldier ; but Tom was again too quick for him, 
and warding off the spear with one hand, raised his rifle barrel with 
the other. 

The Indian, not being wounded, was physically much stronger than 
his adversary, but the moral courage of Tom was too much for him, 

and quailing beneath the fierce 
glance of his eagle eye, he began to 
retreat slowly toward the 
place where he had dropped 
his rifle. Tom, feeling that 
if the Indian recovered his 
rifle, it would be a hopeless 
case with him, threw away 
^&p his rifle barrel, and drawing 
his hunting knife, rushed 
upon him. A desperate 
struggle ensued, and several 
deep cuts were inflicted, but the Indian finally succeeded in casting 
Tom from him, and ran to the spot where he had thrown his gun, 
while Tom searched for the gun of the other Indian ; thus both, 
bleeding and almost exhausted, were searching for arms to com- 
mence anew the battle. 

The smoke that hung between them and the main body of Indians 

had now cleared away, and some of them having passed the thicket, 

were in full view, and seemingly, there was no chance of escape for 

Tom ; but notwithstanding, relief was close at hand. 

The little garrison at the fort, now numbering six or seven, had 




TOM DRAWS HIS HUNTING KNIFE. 



2t0 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 



witnessed the whole of this desperate conflict. Among them was a 
Mrs. Fursley, a woman long familiar with deeds of daring, from 
having passed much of her time on the borders, and in association 
with the Rangers — who, seeing Tom bravely fighting with such odds 
against him, urged the men to go to his rescue ; but they, consider- 
ing the attempt useless, the Indians so far outnumbering them, 
refused to go. The brave woman, declaring that so fine a fellow as 
Tom should not be 
scalped for want of help, 
snatched a rifle out of 
her husband's hand, 
and jumping on a 
horse, sallied out to 
the rescue. The 
men, ashamed to be 
outdone by a 
woman, followed at 
full speed toward 
the place of combat. 
An exciting scene ensued ; the Indians at the ridge having just 
discovered Tom, were rushing toward him, swinging their tomahawks, 
and yelling like very devils ; and his comrades, urging their horses 
to the utmost, were trying to reach him first. Tom, exhausted with 
the loss 6f blood, had fallen fainting to the earth, while his adversary, 
too intent on his prey to notice the approach of the Rangers, was 
searching for his rifle. The Rangers were the first on the ground. 

Mrs. Pursley, knowing Tom's spirit, thought he had thrown him- 
self down in despair at the loss of his rifle, and the fearful odds 
against him. She offered him the one she carried ; but Tom was 
past using it for the present. His friends hastily lifted him up before 




MRS. PURSLET RUSHES TO THE RESCUE OF TOM. 



WONDERFUL ESCAPE OF TOM HIGGINS. 



2U 



one of their number, and turned to retreat just as the main body of 
the Indians came up. They made good their retreat, and the Indians 
retired without molesting them further. 

After being carried into the fort, Tom remained insensible for 
some days, and for some time his recovery was doubtful. His 
friends extracted two of the bullets, leaving two in his thigh, which 
they were unable to extract, one of which continued to give him 
much pain for several years, although the wound was healed. 
At length, hearing that a surgeon had settled within a day's journey, 
of where he was, he went to see him. The surgeon told him he could 
extract the ball, but charged the enormous sum of fifty dollars for 
the operation. This Tom considered exorbitant, and refused to give, 
as it was more than one half of his yearly pension. On his way 
home he thought the matter over, and concluded he could do it 

himself, and save the expense. 

Accordingly, on reaching 

home, he requested his wife 

to hand him his razor. The 

ride home had so irritated the 

"^'^'^-- parts, that the ball, which at 

n other times could not be dis- 

) covered, could now be felt. 

AVith the assistance of his wife, he 

deliberately laid open his thigh, until 

the edge of the razor touched the 







V:-^^ 



TOM BECOMES HIS OWN SURGEON 

ball, and then, inserting his two thumbs into the gash, he, as he 
termed it, ''flirted it out without costing a cent.'" The other ball 
still remained in his thigh, but caused him no pain, except when he 
used violent exercise. 

He continncd to be one of the best hunters in the country, and it 
still took a strong man to handle him. 



2t2 



ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER. 



History nowhere records a nobler and more disinterested act than 
the one here related. Higgins, having the sure means of escape 
from what would be considered by most men as almost hopeless 
peril, unhesitatingly gave them up to a wounded comrade, by offering 
his horse ; and when that intention was defeated, by the flight of the 
horse, and there was still a chance of retreat for himself, remained 
at the hazard of his own life, to protect his wounded friend. Were 
not the facts corroborated they could hardly be believed. 



ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER IN THE CANADIAN 
REBELLION— HOW HE OUTWITTED GENERAL SCOTT. 

The long pent-up fires of Canadian discontent had at length burst 
forth throughout the whole extent of the two provinces, from Quebec 
to Pentengoshene, in many 

acts of open rebellion, which ^ / '"L.^^ ^ ^|| 

threatened ere long 
into a popular and 
successful revolu- 
lution. Thirty 
thousand Ameri- 
can sympathizers, 
possessing as a 
general thing as 
little character as 
true courao'e and ^'^ interview with the general. 

less capital than either, responded to the call of McKenzie, 
Papeneau, and other equally patriotic Canadian demagogues, and 
were rallying their forces at various points along the whole 




ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER. 2t3 

American frontier, preparing, in defiance of all law, human or divine, 
to invade Canada, crush the galling yoke of Britain from off her 
enslaved colonies, revolationise British America and establish a model 
republic, under which every American liberator was to hold an 
office of trust and profit. 

Commissions of generals, colonels, commodores, and array and navy 
captains, were as plenty and common among the vagabond crusaders 
in Western New York, Ohio and Michigan, as were the floods of 
worthless *' wild cat" bank notes of the same period in the latter 
state. 

T had taken a very active interest in the brigand crusade ; and the 
" Canadian Congress," assembled in an obscure cellar in Cleveland, 
Ohio, had rewarded my zeal by making me a captain in the Cana- 
dian navy, with the present command of a little fore-and-aft schooner, 
and that of a first class line-of-battle ship iu prospective. 

It was late in the season (1838) when I v/as sent to Buffalo with 
my vessel, for the purpose of receiving six old brass six-pounders, 
which were to constitute the schooner's battery when the war fairly 
begun, and a considerable quantity of ammunition, together with three 
hundred muskets, dragoons' cutlasses and pistols ^« J /??/???z'^?<to, which 
were to be used by the patriot army in the west, to commence the 
war with. 

By the exercise of some little tact on my part, and a combination 
of lucky circumstances on the part of providence, I succeeded in 

-^omplishing my mission so far as to get the arras and munitions 
of war on board, and escaping from the harbor of Buffalo in a snow- 
storm, while the half dozen United States Marshals were overhaul- 
ing a harmless Canadian schooner to which I had directed their 
attention for my own benefit. 

My instructions were to touch at Cleveland for the purpose of 
18 



2t4 ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER. 

taking in a quantity of arms which had been collected there, and 
then to stop at Huron, where I would be met by Gen. McLeod, of 
the patriot army, who would give me definite instructions as to my 
final destination. 

I got into Cleveland without any trouble, and out again, by 
carrying off two deputy marshals who came down to search the 
schooner, and landing them on the lake shore in the woods, some 
ten miles to the westward of the harbor. 

My six " sixes" were buried under the ballast, alongside the keelson, 
the powder stowed in flour barrels bored full of holes, and oysters 
all around the kegs, while the balls were packed in real red lead 
casks, and the pistols, muskets and swords, in long boxes, with lots 
of hay, showing through the joints, all marked, "Bedsteads." So 
that I had little fear of being caught in Huron, particularly as the 
people there, to a man, and to a woman too, I think, were favorable 
to the piratical revolutionary movement. 

It w^as very nearly dark, on a cold, boisterous evening in the month 
of December, when T arrived at Huron ; and as the crew were all out 
on the long wooden pier which forms the western side of the harbor, 
bent on to a long tow-line " tracking" the schooner up toward the piers, 
I saw a tall, military-looking man come along down the pier, point 
toward the vessel when he came near the men, and after making, as 
I judged, some hurried inquiries of them about her, came toward me, 
and the moment he stopped opposite w^iere I was standing at the 
helm, I recognized him past all doubt, as Gen. McLeod, the 
commander-in-chief of the patriot army in the west. I had never 
seen the general, but he had been described so minutely that I could 
not be mistaken in him ; besides, the moment he stopped, he passed 
a word which served as the " grand hailing sign" among the 
" hunters," a secret organization, of which r.caylv everv vasrabond 



ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER. 2*75 

was a member, so that there could be no mistake in the matter — the 
man was no other than the veritable General McLeod himself. 

" Good evening, captain," he said, as soon as I had replied to the 
hail ; " what luck, captain ?" 

" Good ! All right, general. But come aboard, sir ;" and I gave 
the schooner a sheer in alongside the pier, so that he could step on 
deck. 

A moment later, and he stood there beside me at the helm, a real 
Hercules in stature, enveloped in a stout, gray overcoat, with a fur 
cap turned down about his ears, while I gazed for a few seconds in 
mute admiration upon the stalwart form of one of the "Iron Duke's" 
favorite veterans of the peninsula and Waterloo. The general gave 
me the regular " hunter's grip," and then asked again : 

"Well, captain, what success?" 

" Beautiful, sir," I answered. " Got 'em all right down there, 
fooled Uncle Sam's officers in Buffalo, gave two more of 'em a free 
passage for nine miles out of Cleveland, and set them ashore in the 
woods ; and here I am, general, all square by the lifts and braces, 
ready to fool ' Old Lundy's Lane,' Gen. John E. Wool, and all the 
other epauletted ' preventatives' that I expect will be here in Huron 
before I get away." 

" Good !" exclaimed the general, laughing heartily, " very good, 
captain. There is nothing like confidence in helping one out of a 
tight place. But you say you have got every thing safe ?" 

" Ay, general ; so nicely stowed away, that even the Argus-eyed 
Scott himself might ransack the schooner for a whole day and fail to 
discover any thing wrong. I've got the cannon buried under the 
ballast, the powder stowed in oysters, bullets in red lead barrels, 
and the small arms packed in fnrnitnrr^ boxes : so you see we're all 
safe, general." 



276 ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER. 

" Yes, it would seem so ; but look out that ' Old Lundy's Lane/ 
as you call him, don't get at your secret. He's in town, I believe, 
and there's the steamer Constitution lying up there, from which he 
has this very afternoon taken a large quantity of arms and ammuni- 
tion ; so look out for him." 

" I will, general ; and if the old seven foot hero of Chippewa gets 
to wind'ard of me, I'll ship second mate of a lime-kiln, and use my 
commission, as captain in the Canadian navy, to light the fire with." 

'' Bravo, captain ! That's the right sort of spirit. But come up 
and see me as soon as you get fast. Come and take supper with 
me. I'm incog., you know, this evening — stopping at Jenkins' 
Hotel — come up, will you ?" and the moment I answered "yes," the 
general leaped ashore, and went off with a true military stride along 
up the wharf toward the big hotel. 

As I entered the hotel, half an hour later, I was shown into the 
dining-room, where the company were already seated at supper; 
and there, at the head of the table, sat the 
head of the patriot army, in a suit of plain 
clothes, while 
ranged along down 
on either hand were 
several officers of 
the United States 
army, and one of ^| 
the m — a stout,, 
hard-featured man, 
in a brilliant uni- 

fQj.m \ gg^ down my supper with the general. 

at once as Major-General Scott. General McLeod smiled, and 
nodded familiarly to me as I entered, and the seats near him being 




ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER. 2tt 

all filled, he pointed with his knife to one near the foot of the long 
table, into which I introduce myself without further ceremony, and 
commenced playing knife and fork with the others. 

I observed during supper, that the officers toward the head of 
the table, eyed the patriotic general and myself very suspiciously ; 
but no word was spoken to either of us, and I had very nearly 
finished my supper in silence, when a doctor who was seated next to 
me, and with whom I was intimately acquainted, asked me, in a low 
tone, what I thought of the general ? 

" What general ?" I asked. 

"Why, General Scott, of course." 

" Well, then, I don't know, doctor, for I have never seen him ; but 
one thing I do know, and that is, if he is half as noble-looking an 
officer as our commander-in-chief up there at the head of the table 
is, the American people will be proud of him as the head of their 
army." 

" Why, what in the name of nonsense do you mean, captain ?" 

"Just this, doctor — that General Donald McLeod there, at the 
head of the table, looks more like a hero than forty General Scotts." 

" Captain, are you drunk or crazy ? Why, man, that is General 
Winfield Scott himself !" 

Down went my up-raised tea-cup with a clash that shivered it to 
atoms on the table, at this startling announcement ; and leaping to 
my feet, I darted from the room, through the hall, out into the street, 
and away down toward the wharf like a locomotive, determined to 
get the schooner under way, and be off — somewhere, I didn't care 
where, much, so that I escaped from " Old Lundy's Lane." 

But I was too late, for I found the vessel in possession of some 
fifty United States soldiers, who were all working away like beavets, 
discharging my contraband cargo of patriot arms and ammunition. 



21 S A desperado's thrilling adventure. 

I wandered about the streets for nearly an hour, feeling myself as 
completely sold as ever a man was, and was so thoroughly ashamed 
ot myself, that I didn't want to go where any one could see my face ; 
till I was finally picked up by a lieutenant, who informed me that 
General Scott wished to see me at the hotel. 

I was like a dog going to be hung ; and being ushered into the 
presence of the hero of Chippewa, General Wool, and about a dozen 
other United States officers, I received in the first place a great 
deal of good advice from General Scott, and then a most pressing 
invitation to join the party in an oyster supper prepared from the 
bivalves which, only an hour previously, had served as overcoats to 
our patriot powder. I remained, and before the party broke up, I 
made a public and most positive declaration, that if I ever engaged 
in another piratical expedition, it should be in some country where 
Major-General Wintield Scott would not be likely to interfere with 
my sailing orders. 



A DESPEBADO'S THKILLHSTG ADVENTURE. 

In the autumn of 1777, when Lord Howe had possession of Phila- 
delphia, the situation of the Americans who could not follow their 
beloved commander, was truly distressing, subject to the every day 
insults of cruel and oppressive foes. Bound to pay obedience to 
laws predicated on the momentary power of a proud and vindictive 
commander, it can be better pictured than described. To obtain 
the common necessaries of life, particularly flour, they had to go 
as far as Bristol, a distance of eighteen or twenty miles, and even 
this indulgence was not granted them, until a pass was procured 
from Lord Howe, as guards were placed along Vine street, extend- 
ing from the Delaware to the Schuylkill, forming a complete barrier ; 



A DESPEIIADO'S THRILLING ADVLNTURE. 



279 



beyond tliese, through the woods extending as far as Frankford, 
were stationed the picket guards — thus rendering it in a manner ' 




THE DESPERADO AND THE BRITISH SENTINEL. 



impossible to reach the Bristol mills, unless first obtaining a pass. 

The American forces were then encamped at Valley Forge, suf- 
fering from cold, hunger, and the inclemency of the season. The 
British rolled in plenty, and spent their days in feastings, their 
nights in balls, riots, and dissipation ; thus resting in supposed se- 
curity, while the American chief was planning a mode for their final 
extirpation. A poor woman, with six small children, whose husband 
was at Valley Forge, had made frequent applications for a pass. 
Engagements rendered it impossible for her cruel tormentors to give 
her one. Rendered desperate from disappointment and the cries of 
her children, she started alone without a pass, and by good luck 
eluded the guards and reached Bristol. 

About this time, there were six brothers of the name of Doale, 
renowned for many acts gf heroic bravery, but which were 



280 A desperado's thrilling adventure. 

in the character of marauders rather than soldiers. They were 
men full six feet high, stout and active, a fearless intrepidity 
characterizing their deeds, and they always succeeded in making their 
escape. A marked partiality to the Americans, rendered them 
obnoxious to the British, and always welcome to the former, to whom 
they conveyed what information they could glean in their adventures. 

Our adventurous female, having procured her flour in a pillow-case, 
holding about twenty pounds, was returning with a light heart to 
her anxious and lonely babes. She had passed the piquet guards 
at Frankford, and was just entering the woods a little this side, 
when a tall, stout man stepped from behind a tree, and putting a 
letter in her hand, requested her to read it. She grasped with eager 
joy the letter bearing the character of her husband's hand-writing. 
After a pause, he said, " Your husband is well, madam, and requested 
me to say that in a short time he will be with you ; money is a scarce 
article among us — I mean among them; but on account of your 
husband's partiality to the cause of liberty, I am willing to become 
his banker." So saying, he handed her a piece of money. " My 
means, madam, are adequate, or I would not be thus lavish," seeing 
she was about to refuse it. 

" You said, sir, my husband would see me shortly ; how do you 
know that which seems so impossible ? and how did you know me, 
who never ." 

" Hush, madam, we are now approaching the British guard ; 
suffice it to say, the American commander has that in his head, 
which, like an earthquake, will shake the whole American continent, 
and expunge all these miscreants ; but hark ! take the road to the 
left — farewell." So saying, he departed. She gave one look, but 
vacancy filled the spot where he stood. With slow and cautious 
steps she approached Yine street. Already her fire burned beneath 



A desperado's thrilling adventure. 281 

her bread, when the awful word " halt !" struck her to the soul. 
She started, and found herself in the custody of a British sentinel. 

"Your pass, woman ?" *' I have none, sir; my children are " 

" D n the rebel crew, why do you breed enemies to your king ? 

This flour is mine — off, woman, and die with your babes." A groan 
was her only answer. The ruffian was about departing, when the 
former messenger appeared — his whole demeanor was changed ; 
humble simplicity marked his gait — he approached the guard with a 
seeming fearfulness, and begged him, in a suppliant voice, to give 
the poor woman her flour. " Fool ! idiot !" exclaimed the guard, 
" who are you ? see yonder guard house — if you interfere here, that 
shall be your quarters." " May be so, sir ; but won't you give the 
poor woman the means of supporting her little family one week 
longer ? Recollect the distance she has walked, the weight of the 
bag, and recollect " 

"Hell and fury, sirrah! "Why bid me recollect, you plead in 
vain — begone, or I'll seize you as a spy." 

" You won't give the poor woman her flour ?" 

"No." 

" Then by my country's faith, and hopes of freedom, you shall !" 
and with a powerful arm he seized the guard by the throat and 
hurled him to the ground. " Run, madam, run — see the guard house 
is alive — secure your flour, pass Vine street, and you are safe." 
'Twas done. The guard made an attempt to rise, when the stranger 
drew a pistol and shot him dead. The unfortunate man gazed 
around him with fearless intrepidity. There was but one way of 
escape, and that through the woods. Seizing the dead man's 
musket, he started like a deer pursued by the hounds. " Shoot him 
down ! shoot him down !" was echoed from one line to another. The 
desperado was lost in the woods, and a general search commenced ; 




282 A desperado's thrilling adventure. 

the object of their pursuit, in the meantime, flew like lightning ; the 
main guard was left behind, but the whole piquet line would soon 
be alarmed — one course alone pre- 
sented itself, and that was to mount 
his horse, which was concealed among 
the bushes, and gallop down to the 
Delaware ; a boat was 
already there for him. The ^ 
thought was no sooner "^"^ 
suggested than it was put 
into execution. He mounted *s^ 
his horse, and eluding the 
alarmed guards, had nearly 

, , ., ^ , THE desperado's FLIGHT. 

reached the Delaware. 

Here he found himself headed and hemmed in by at least fifty 
exasperated soldiers. One sprang from behind a tree, and demanded 
immediate surrender. " 'Tis useless to prevaricate — you are now in 
our possession." " Son of a slave ! slave of a king ! how dare you to 
address a freeman ! Surrender yourself — a Doale never surrendered 
himself to any man, far less to a blinded poltroon— away, or die;" 
and attempted to pass. The guard leveled his gun ; but himself 
was leveled in the dust ; the ball of Doale's pistol had been swifter 
than his own. His case was now truly desperate ; behind him was 
the whole line of guards— on the north of him, the Frankford piquets, 
and on the left of him, the city of Philadelphia, filled with British 
troops. 

One way, and only one presented itself, and that was to cross the 
river. He knew his horse ; he plunged in— a shout succeeded, and 
ere he reached half the distance, twenty armed boats were in swift 
pursuit. His noble horse dashed through the Delaware, his master 



'HE GAMBLERS OF THE SOUTH AND WEST. 283 

spurred him on v/ith double interest, v/hile the balls whistled around 
bim. The tide was running down, and when he reached the Jersey 
^fc. shore he found himself immediately 
" ^^E opposite the old slip at Market street. 

On reaching the shore he turned round, 

s*^' tortk oiit pistol, and, with a steady 
^^ aim, fired at the 
first boat ; a man 
fell over the side 
and sank to rise no 
more. He then 
disappeared in the 
wood. The angry, 
harassed and dis- 




THE NARROW ESCAPE. 



appointed pursuers gave one look, one curse, and returned to the 
Pennsylvania shore, fully believing, that, if he was not the devil, he 
was at least one of his principal agents. 



THE GAMBLERS OP THE SOUTH AND WEST. 

The entire world cannot produce such a collection of unmitigated 
scoundrels as are to be found in the South and West, some spending 
their time upon the rivers, some passing for planters and tavern-keep- 
ers, scattered through the country at convenient distances, making a 
chain of posts for the accommodation of their brethren, and others 
prowling about under various guises, as horse-dealers, negro drovers, 
and peddlers, but carrying on the more profitable trades of negro 
stealmg, robbery, and murder. Commencing in most cases with 
gambling, the western scamp seldom pauses in his career, until he 
has reached the topmost round in the ladder of crime. 



284 



THE GAMBLERS OP THE SOUTH AND WEST. 



No boat ever travels over the Mississippi, Ohio, or their tributa- 
ries, without the accustomed freightage of "Chevaliers d' ludus- 




FEARFUL RESCLT OF GAMBLING ON A MISSISSIPPI BOAT. 

trie," as much superior in audacity and villainy to their congeners 
of the old world, as is an incarnate demon of hell to a common 
e very-day rascal. 

Boats are owned by associations of these scoundrels, run to facili- 
tate gambling and robbing operations, and I would here warn all 
tyros in western travel to inquire well into the character of both 
boat and captain before embarking, and when on board, to be 
seduced into no game of chance — even for amusement — with a 
stranger. 

Some few years since, I think in 1842, a man was hung in Cincin- 
nati, who, although but twenty-four years of age, coufessed to 
twenty-two murders. 

According to his own story, he had been, for three years of his 
career, a nominal barkeeper upon a Western boat, in order that he 
might have a better chance to commit and conceal crime. 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHWEST. 285 

Traveling as a solitary gambler, while a mere boy, lie had marked 
one of the passengers for his prey, under the idea that he carried 
with him a large amount of money. He engaged a part of the same 
state-room, and not succeeding in his efforts to inveigle the man 
into a game of cards, determined to murder him in the night and 
leave the boat with his booty. 

He succeeded in the commission of the crime, but as he was 
searching for the supposed money, the door opening upon the guards 
was unlocked, and the captain of the boat entered. 

Both were astonished, and the murderer paralysed, until the cap-"* 
tain, the older adept in guilt, informed him that he had only fore- 
stalled his intentions, and proposed a division of the spoil. 

For three years he remained upon the boat, engaged in gambling, 
and, when a fair opportunity presented itself, murder. 

When all or a great portion of this tribe of villains were united 
by that arch-fiend Murrel, they presented a phalanx of crime that 
seemed almost impregnable to the law, and could only have been 
checked, for entirely uprooted they were not, by the ultra means 
adopted for this purpose in Mississippi. 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTH'WEST.— HCW 
A BRAVE MAN SAVED DETROIT. 

The sixteenth of August, 1812, was a day that will be long re- 
membered by the people of Detroit, for it was on that day that the 
old and imbecile Hull, in his capacity of Governor of the Michigan 
Territory, shamefully surrendered this important post, then gar- 
risoned by two thousand brave and efficient troops, to the British 
and Indians. 



286 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHWEST. 



As soon as the articles of capitulation were signed, the enemy 
crossed the river from Maiden and took possession of the place, 




THE INDIAN'S SWARMING THE STREETS OF DETROIT. 

followed by a rabble of vile camp followers, and all the savages that 
for some weeks had been attached to the English camp. Of course 
the citizens were thrown into the utmost dismay at the sight of the 
painted Indians swarming their streets, and the knowledge that they 
might at any hour, when maddened by whisky, and encouraged by 
their no less savage allies among the whites, make an indiscriminate 
plunder of the town. But the influence of the British general for 
some days was sufficient to keep them from acts of open violence, 
and by degrees the townspeople became accustomed to their pres- 
ence, and strove by all means in their power to ingratiate them- 
selves into the good graces of their captors. 

When the news of the surrender reached the tribes of the south- 
west, they gathered from far and near, and poured down upon the 
frontier, to share in the plunder, which, in consideration of their 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHWEST. 237 

being allies of the British, they deemed themselves justly entitled 
to, Detroit was filled and surrounded with savages, and the town 
became a scene of drunken orgies and terror, which the English 
were altogether unable to control. Scarcely an hour passed with- 
out an act of violence upon the unprotected citizens, and night was 
rendered sleepless by the fierce yells and whoops of these drunken 
fiends. 

One day during this fearful period, a small party of Indians, rest- 
less for want of plunder and scalps, went to a store kept by a 
Frenchman named De Quindre, and two of them entered with the 
pretence that they wished to purchase something, while their com- 
rades remained without. There were lying on the counter several 
pieces of cloth. The Indians seeing them, each snatched a roll, and 
turned to leave the place. De Quindre called to them to stop, as 
they had not paid for the goods. But the savages were passing out 
of the door, to rejoin their laughing companions, with the cloth 
under their arms, when the Frenchman, leaping over his counter, 
jerked the goods from them, and being a powerful man, pitched the 
two Indians into the street. 

Instantly the war-whoop was raised by the party, which was re- 
plied to from all parts of the town, and the savages, drawing their 
knives, made a rush upon the imprudent store-keeper. But the 
latter, immediately perceiving the terrible storm he had incautiously 
invoked, sprang back again to his store, and locking the door, ran 
into an upper room, from which, by a window, he made his escape. 
and ran through a back alley out upon the common, and on to the 
fort, where he begged the British commanding officer to protect 
himself and property from destruction. But that officer could and 
would do nothing, although he saw that the Indians would probably 
massacre the entire population if they once got a going, under such 
a state of excitement. 



288 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHWEST. 



" It is not my property alone that is in danger from their vio- 
lence/' persisted the Frenchman, " but the lives of the entire popu- 
lation are in the hands of the savages, and unless you exert your 
authority to quiet them, our streets will flow with blood !" 

"I am sorry for you, sir," coolly replied the Briton, "but the 
truth is, my troops are too few in number to control the warriors, 
and I can do nothing for you !" 

De Qaindre therefore abruptly left the fort, and ran to the quar- 
ters of Colonel McKee, then the British agent, who he knew was 
not only popular among the savages, but had always exerted over 
them unbounded influence. 

On his way he could see that the Indians were gathering in hun- 
dreds from every direction, armed with war-clubs and tomahawks, 

prepared for a general massacre of the 
inhabitants ; while their fierce war- 
cries were ringing with piercing tones 
upon the air. A mob of at 
least a thousand of the 
painted demons had assem- 
bled in front of his house, 
and were demolishing his 
doors and windows, while his 
goods were being thrown out 
to the crowd waiting im- 
patiently for the owner to be 
dragged forth, and delivered to their murderous knives. This 
sight gave fleetness to his feet, and rushing into the^ colonel's 
quarters he found that officer, to whom he briefly, and as distinctly 
as his excitement would permit, related what had occurred, and 
begged him to interfere, if possible, and prevent the threatened 




THE frenchman's APPEAL TO THE OFFICER. 



massacre. 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHWEST. 289 

McKee, well versed in the Indian character, instantly perceived 
the imminent danger that menaced the place, and requesting De 
Quindre to remain where he was, lest the Indians, so greatly exas- 
perated against him, might kill him, hastened to the scene of 
excitement. 

He was a tall, straight, athletic, noble-iookmg man, with a voice 
like thunder, and from his long intercourse with the Indians of the 
frontier, had an intimate knowledge of their language. Pushmg his 
way through the savages, now excited to madness at not finding the 
Frenchman, he mounted to the top of a low buddmg, waved his 
sword, and in loud tones shouted — 

" Ho ! who are the cowards in this crowd ?" 

The sound of his well-known voice arrested the attention of the 
yelling rabble, and after a brief silence, one of the Indians replied : 

" There are no cowards here ! We are all braves !" 

" It's a lie !" returned the colonel, stamping his foot with pretended 
rage; "I tell you, warriors, there are cowards, craven cowards 
among you !" 

This insulting accusation was received with astonishment by the 
Indians at first, and then they turned toward the bold man who had 
dared to utter it, with eyes burning with passion, and a yell of 
defiance broke simultaneously from them. But, without moving a 
muscle, the courageous agent met their fiery glances unquailingly. 
He had changed the tide of feeling, and thus far had gained a very 
important point. 

" I repeat it," continued the colonel, straightening his tall, com- 
manding figure to its utmost stretch, " there are cowards, sneaking 
wolves, in this crowd, that I am ashamed to see among my brave 
Indians! Now, let my brave warriors separate themselves from 

them, and stand on this side of the path, while the cowards remain 
19 



290 



THRILLING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHWEST. 



about tlie Frenchman's doors — they are perfectly welcome to plunder 

his worthless goods !" 

The powerful voice of the white man now struck upon the ears of 

the savages with an electric effect, and once more a revulsion of feeling 

j^ took place among them. The 
tempest of angry passion was 
instantly subdued, and the 
J loud yells sank to low mur- 
murs, while the entire mass, 
as if impelled by one common 
sentiment, moved together to 
the other side of the street, 
and raising their faces to 
where the brave officer was 
standing, seemed to await his 
further orders. 




THE BRAVE COLONEL S ELECTRIC ADDRESS. 



" That is well, my friends," cried he. " Now let every hrave man 
follow me. The cowards may remain behind and secure their 
plunder." 

So saying, the colonel descended from his elevated position, and 
then led them to the common beyond the town, where, mounting a 
stump, he detained them with a good-natured harangue, while lie 
sent off to the commissary's store for a barrel of whisky. When it 
arrived he invited the Indians to drink. The barrel was soon 
emptied, and another, and another still, were sent for, till under the 
mellowing influence of the strong waters, the fiery warriors forgot 
their late excitement, and by the prompt and determined action of 
this brave white man, were restrained from further violence. 
Throughout the night, however, there were frequently heard, amid 
the drunken sounds, the threatening words of " fire, blood, scalps, 
and plunder." 



JACOB WETZEL AND HIS FAITHFUL DOG. 291 

But Colonel McKee had provided against further trouble from tho 
discontented spirits among the Indians, by selecting- the sober 
warriors, and dispatching two to each of the dwellings of the 
citizens who had been most strongly threatened. These fellows, 
wrapping themselves in their blankets, stretched themselves on the 
front doorsteps as a guard to protect the inmates from any sudden 
outbreak of savage fury. 

Thus the energetic conduct of this brave officer, on that critical 
occasion, saved the city of Detroit from the torch of the savages, 
and its people from indiscriminate slaughter. In a great crisis, one- 
brave, clear-headed man is worth many timid statesmen or cowardly 
rhetoricians. 



JACOB WETZEL AND HIS FAITHFUL DOG-A LEGEND 
OF CINCINNATI. 

The Wetzels were among the bravest of the brave hunters who 
ranged the forests when Ohio was the Far-West, and Cincinnati a 
mere collection of cabins ; when the smooth waters of the majestic 
river which gave its name to the state, were disturbed only by the 
prow of the bark canoe, or the flat boat, as it leisurely floated down 
upon its tide ; and the Miamis, the Pottawatomies, and the Shawnees, 
contended with the white man for the right to these beautiful hunting- 
grounds. Many and thrilling are the incidents related of Jacob 
Wetzel, the most fearless of the brothers. He hated the red-man 
with a mortal hatred, and reveled in the hand-to-hand contest, in 
which life was the stake. 

On one occasion he was returning from a very successful hunt, in 
which he had secured a large amount of game, to procure a horse 
on which to pack his booty. He had reached a spot near the banks 



292 



JACOB WETZEL AND HIS FAITHFUL DOG, 




ilE IHT.NTER S CRITICAL SITUATION. 



of a water-course which ran iuto the Ohio, in the immediate vicinity 
of the collection of cabins which occupied the site where now stands 
"the Queen City of the West/' 
and had sat down upon a log to 
wipe away the perspiration, whicl 
his exertions in pressing througl 
the thickets of un- __jn 

derbrush had 
started upon his 
face, notwithstand- .# 
mg the season, "^ 
when his attention 
was awakened by 
a rustling of the 
leaves and cracking of dry twigs under the feet of some heavy 
animal, or more dangerous foe. His dog, too, which till now had 
sat quietly at his side, was startled by the sound, and gave utterance 
to a low growl, which betokened his consciousness of the proximity 
of an enemy. Silencing the animal by a gesture, Wetzel seized his 
rifle, and springing behind a tree, peered through the leaves to dis- 
cover his antagonist. The swaying of a bough caught his eye, and 
he at once became conscious of the fact that an Indian was likewise 
endeavoring to make out the whereabouts of the enemy, whose pre- 
sence had been certified by the growling of the dog. The moving 
of the bough had also attracted the dog's eye, and he broke out into 
u long and continuous barking. 

The moment Wetzel made out the form of the Indian, which was 
partially exposed to his aim, he brought his rifle to the shoulder. 
The movement was not lost upon the warrior, who, with equally 
rapid movement, brought his piece to a present; in doing so he 



JACOB WETZEL AND HIS FAITHFUL DOG. 293 

altered his position, so as to compel Wetzel to change his aim, and 
both rifles exploded simultaneously, but with different effect. The 
Indian's aim had been too rapid to be sure, and his ball whizzed by 
the hunter's head without injury. Wetzel's aim, on the contrary, 
although hasty, had been more certain, and his ball crashed through 
the elbow joint of his antagonist's left arm, rendering it useless ; and 
in much less time than I have taken to describe it, they found them- 
selves face to face, prepared for the deadly hand-to-hand struggle, 
in which the life of one or the other was to be the sacrifice. 

Wetzel, thinking the other was disabled, concluded to decide the 
affair with the knife, and had dropped his rifle, drawn his blade, and 
rushed forward to give his opponent the coup-de-grace, as he sup- 
posed. But the other was no child in the art of warfare, and was 
prepared to meet him. He was a powerful, muscular, and athletic 
fellow, naked to his waist ; and his chest and upper limbs were 
beautifully proportioned, exhibiting great force, combined with 
agility and endurance. All this was observed by Wetzel, as they 
stood for a moment, measuring each other's strength. The next 
instant they had closed in deadly combat. The skillful blows of the 
white man were as skillfully parried by the Indian warrior, and for a 
few moments the contest appeared doubtful, notwithstanding the 
Indian's wound. 

At length, however, he parried his opponent's blows with such 
force and dexterity, as to knock his weapon out of his hand, and 
throw it to a distance of thirty feet among the leaves and bushes. 
Weaponless, but undaunted, the hunter had no other resource but 
to close with his antagonist, and endeavoi* to wrench away his knife, 
or to escape by running. The latter he was not at all disposed to 
try, and quick as thought he adopted the former expedient. As he 
rushed in and seized the Indian, he clasped his arm around his body 



294 



JACOB WETZEL AND HIS FAITHFUL DOG. 



in such a manner as to encircle his right arm, so that he could not 
use his knife ; and in this way they struggled for a few moments, 
until their feet becoming interlocked, they both came to the ground 
together. So great was the shock that the Indian's arm was re- 
leased, and he prepared to strike his antagonist a fatal blow. 
Wetzel was not so easily finished, however, and by rolling the In- 
dian over on his right side, prevented him from using the knife, and 
prolonged the contest. This was repeated two or three times, until 
at length the Indian, by a powerful effort, in which he concentrated 
his whole strength, threw the hunter underneath, and planting his 
<~s> / <j knee upon the other's breast, raised his 

arm, with an exulting shout of victory, 
to give the final stroke. Wetzel saw 
the impending 
blow, and closed 
his eyes in expec- 
tation of its imme- 
diate descent. 

A new antago- 
nist appears upon 

THE HUNTER ESCAPES. tllC SCCnC, UOW- 

ever, in the shape of his faithful dog, who, although he had not been 
an idle spectator of the contest, had done but little more than bark 
and snap at the Indian's leggings. Roused now to the highest pitch 
of rage at his master's predicament, he came to the rescue at the 
critical moment, by rushing at the Indian's throat, which he seized 
between his fangs and tore without mercy, causing him to drop his 
knife, and fall backwards in such a manner as to release his master 
somewhat from his unpleasant situation. Collecting all his remain- 
ing strength, Wetzel threw the Indian from him, sprang to his feet, 




A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS. 295 

seized the other's knife, and in another instant it was planted to the 
hilt in his heart, and he expired almost without a groan. Rightly 
judging that there might be other red-skins in the vicinity, Wetzel 
lost no time in gathering up his own and the Indian's weapons, and 
making good his escape. 

He had proceeded but a short distance before he heard behind 
him the shouts of quite a large party of Indians, who speedily 
gathered around the body of their fallen comrade ; and as they re 
cognized in his distorted lineaments the features of one of their 
bravest chiefs, they sent up a yell which made the forests resound 
again. An immediate pursuit was commenced, but the hunter had 
fortunately found a canoe in the creek, which he had availed himself 
of; and when the Indians came to the opposite bank, he was safe 
iiTDon the other side and out of their reach. 



A DESPERADO AMOITG THE MAIL BAGS-THE STAGE- 
DRIVER'S STORY. 

Fourteen years ago I drove from Littleton, a distance of forty- 
two miles, and, as I had to wait the arrival of two or three coaches, 
did not start until after dinner ; so I very often had a good distance 
to drive after dark. It was in the dead of winter, and the season 
had been a tough one. A great deal of snow had fallen, and the 
drifts were plenty and deep. The mail that I carried was not due 
at Littleton, by the contract, until one o'clock in the morning ; but 
that winter the postmaster was very often obliged to sit up a little 
later than that for me. 

One day in January, when I drove up for my mail at Danbury, the 
postmaster called me into his ojffice. 



296 A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS. 

"Pete," said he, with an important, serious look, " there's some 
pretty heavy money packages in that bag ;" and he pointed to the 




"PETE," SAID THE POSTMASTER, "THERE'S SOME HEAVY MONEY PACKAGES IN THAT BAG. 

bag as he spoke. He said the money was from Boston to some 
land agents up near the Canada line. Then he asked me if I'd got 
any passengers who were going through to Littleton. I told him I 
did not know ; but " suppose I haven't ?" said I. 

" Why," said he, " the agent of the lower route came in to-day, 
and he says that there have been two suspicious characters on the 
stage that came up last night ; and he suspects that they have an 
eye upon the mail, so that it will stand you in hand to be a little 
f;areful.'* 

He said the agent had described one of them as a short, thick-set 
fellow, about forty years of age, with long hair and a thick, heavy 
clump of beard under the chin, but none on the side of his face. He 
didn't know any thing about the other. I told the old fellow I 
guessed there was not much danger. 



A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS. 29T 

"Oh, no, not if you have got passengers through ; but I only told 
you this so you might look out for your mail, and look out when 
you change horses." 

I answered that I should do so, and then took the bag under my 
arm and left the office. I stowed the mail under my seat a little 
more carefully than usual, placing it so that I could keep my 
feet against it; but beyond this I did not feel any concern. 
It was past one when I started, and I had four passengers, two of 
whom rode on to my first stopping place. I reached Gowan's Mills 
at dark, where we stopped for supper, and where my other two 
passengers concluded to stop for the night. 

About six o'clock in the evening I left Gowan's Mills alone, having 
two horses and an open puug. 

I had seventeen miles to go, and a hard seventeen it was too. 
The night was quite clear, but the wind was sharp and cold, the 
loose snow flying in all directions, while the drifts were deep and 
closely packed. It was slow, tedious work, and my horses soon 
became leg weary and restive. At the distance of six miles I came 
to a little settlement called Bull's Corners, where I took fresh horses. 
I'd been two hours going that distance. Just as I was going to 
start, a man came up and asked me if I was going through to 
Littleton. I told him I should go through if the thing could be 
possibly done. He said he was very anxious to go, and as he had 
no baggage, I told him to jump in and make himself comfortable as 
possible. I was gathering up my lines when the hostler came up 
and asked me if I knew that one of my horses had cut himself badly. 
I jumped out and went with him, and found that one of the animals 
had got a deep cork cut on the off forefoot. I gave such directions 
as I considered necessary, and was about to turn away, when the 
hostler remarked that he thought I came alone. I told him I did. 



298 A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS. 

" Then where did you get that passenger ?" said he. 

" He has just got in," I answered. 

" Got in from where ?" 

"I don't know." 

"Well, now," said the hostler, "that's kind o' curious. There 
ain't no such man been at the house, and I know that there ain't 
been none at any of the neighbor's." 

"■ Let's have a look at his face," said I ; "we can get that much 
at any rate. Do you go back with me, and when I get into the pung 
just hold your lantern so that the light will shine into his face." 

He did as I wished, and as I stepped into the pung I got a fair 
view of such portions of my passenger's face as were not muffled up. 
I saw a short, thick frame, full, hardy features, and I could see that 
there was a heavy beard under the chin. I thought of the man 
whom the postmaster had described to me ; but I didn't think 
seriously upon it until I had started. Perhaps I had got half a 
mile when I noticed that the mail-bag wasn't in its old place under 
my feet. 

"Hallo!" says I, holding up my horses a little, "where's my 
mail ?" 

My passenger sat on the seat behind me, and I turned toward him. 

" Here is a bag of some kind slipped back under ray feet," he said, 
giving it a kick, as though he'd shoved it forward. 

Just at this moment my horses lumbered into a deep snow-drift, 
and I was forced to get out and tread the snow down ahead of them, 
and lead them through it. 

This took me all of fifteen minutes, and when I got in again I 
pulled the mail-bag forward and got my feet upon it. And as I was 
doing this I saw the man take something from his lap, beneath the 
buffalo, and put it in his breast pocket. At this I thought it was a 



A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS. 



299 




pistol. I had caught the gleam of the barrel in the star-light, and 
when I had time to reflect, I knew I could not be mistaken. 

About this time I began to think somewhat seriously. From what 
I had heard and seen, I soon made up my mind that the individual 
behind me not only meant to rob the mail, ^' 
but he was prepared to rob me of my life. 
If I resisted him, he would 
shoot me, and perhaps he 
meant to perform that deli- 
cate job at any rate. While 
I was pondering, the horses 
fell into another deep snow- 
drift, and I was again forced 
to get out and tread down 
the snow before them. I 
asked my passenger if he 
would help me, but he said he didn't feel very well — wouldn't try it ; 
so I worked alone, and was all of a quarter of an hour getting my 
team through the drift. When I got into the sleigh again, I began 
to feel for the mail-bag with my feet, and found it where I had left it ; 
but when I attempted to withdraw my foot, I discovered that it had 
become entangled in something — I thought it the buffalo, and tried 
to kick it clear ; but the more I kicked, the more closely was it held. 
I reached down my hand, and after feeling -about a few minutes, I 
found that my foot was in the mail-bag ! I felt again, and found 
my hand in among the packages of letters and papers ! I ran my 
fingers over the edges of the opening, and became assured that the 
stout leather had been cut with a knife. 

Here was a discovery. I began to wish I had taken a little more 
forethought before leaving Danbury ; but as I knew that making 



MY SUSPICIOUS PASSENGER. 



300 A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS. 

such wishes was only a waste of time, I quickly gave it up, and began 
to consider what I had best do under the existing circumstances. 
I wasn't long in making up my mind upon a few essential points. 
First, the man behind me was a villain ; second, he had cut open the 
mail-bag and robbed it of some valuable matter. He must have 
known the money letters by the size and shape ; third, he meant to 
leave the stage on the first opportunity ; and fourthly, he was pre- 
pared to shoot me if I attempted to arrest or detain him. 

I revolved these things over in my mind, and pretty soon I thoughf; 
of a course to pursue. I knew that to get my hands safely upon the 
rascal, I must take him unawares, and this I could not do while he 
was behind me — for his eyes were upon me all the time — so I must 
resort to stratagem. Only a little distance ahead of us was a house. 
An old farmer named Lougee lived there, and directly in front of it 
was a huge snow-bank, stretched across the road, through which a 
track for wagons had been cleared with shovels. 

As we approached the cot, I saw a light in the front room, as I 
felt confident I should, for the old man generally sat up until the 
stage went by. I drove on, and when nearly opposite the dwelhng, 
stood up, as I had frequently done when approaching difficult places. 
I saw the snow-bank ahead, and could distinguish it. I urged my 
horses to a good speed, and when near the bank forced them into it. 

One of the runners mounted the edge of the bank, after which the 
other ran into the cut, thus throwing the sleigh over about as quick as 
if lightning had struck it. My passenger had not calculated on any 
such movement, and wasn't prepared for it ; but I had calculated, 
and was prepared. He rolled out into the deep snow, with a heavy 
buffalo robe about him, while I lighted upon my feet directly on tho 
top of him. I punched his head in the snow, and then sang out for 
old Lougee. I did not have to call a second time, for the farmer 



A DESPERADO AMONG THE MAIL BAGS. 301 

had come to the window to see me pass, and as soon as he saw my 
sleigh overturn, he had lighted his lantern and hurried out. 
" What's to pay !" asked the old man, as he hurried out. 
" Lead the horses into the track, and then come here," said T. 
As I spoke, I partially loosened my hold upon the villain's throat, 
and he drew up a pistol from his bosom ; but I saw it in season, and 
^^ jammed his head into the snow 
^^ again, and got the weapon away 
M from him. By this time Lougee had 
led the horses out and came 
back, and I explained the 
i^^K matter to him in as few 
iyv::s>5^ir?^ss^^^ w r d s as possible. We 
" ^-^^ hauled the rascal out into 
the road, and upon exami- 
nation we found about 
THE DESPERADO CAUGHT. twcnty packagcs of letters 

which he had stolen from the mail-bag, and stowed away in his 
pockets. He swore and threatened and prayed, but we paid no 
attention to his blarney. Lougee got some stout cord, and when 
we had securely bound the villain, we tumbled him into the pung. I 
asked the old man if he would accompany me to Littleton, and he 
said *' of course." So he got his overcoat and muffler, and ere long 
we started. 

I reached the end of my route with my mail all safe, though not 
as snug as it might have been, and my mail-bag a little worse for the 
game he had played upon it. However, the mail robber was secure, 
and within a week he was identified by some officer from Concord 
as an old offender, and I'm rather inclined to the opinion that he's 
in the state prison at the present moment. At any rate he was 
there the last I heard of him. 




302 



BRADY AND THE DUTCHMAN. 



BRADY AND THE DUTCHMAN. 

Captain Brady had returned from Sandusky, perhaps a week, when 
he was observed one evening by a man of the name of Phouts, sit- 
ting in a solitary 
part of the fort, 
apparently a b - f 
s o r b e d in; 




CAPTAIN BRADT AND THE HONEST DUTCHMAN. 

thought. Phouts approached him unregarded, and was pained to 
the bottom of his honest heart to perceive that the countenance of 
his honored captain bore traces of deep care, and even melancholy. 
He accosted him, however, in the best English he had, and sooth- 
ingly said, "Gabtain, was ails you?" Brady looked at him a short 
time without speaking ; then resuming his usual equanimity, replied, 
" I have been thinking about the red-skins, and it is my opinion 
there are some above us on the river. I have a mind to pay them a 
visit. Now, if I get permission from the general to do so, will you 
go along ?" Phouts was a stout, thick Dutchman, of uncommon 
strength and activity. He was also well acquainted with the woods. 



BRADY AND THE DUTCHMAN. 303 

When Brady had ceased speaking, Phouts raised himself on tip-toe, 
and bringing his heels hard down on the ground, by way of em- 
phasis, his eyes full of fire, said, " By dunder und lightnin, I would 
rader go mit you, Gabtain, as to any of te finest weddins in tis gun- 
try." Brady told him to keep quiet, and say nothing about it, as no 
man in the fort must know any thing of the expedition except General 
Brodhead, bidding Phouts call at his tent in an hour. He then 
went to the general's quarters, whom he found reading. 

After the usual topics were discussed, Brady proposed for con- 
sideration his project of ascending the Alleghany, with but one man 
in company ; stating his reasons for apprehending a descent from 
that quarter by the Indians. The general gave his consent ; at 
parting, took him by the hand in a friendly manner, advising him 
how to proceed, and charging him particularly to be careful of his 
own life, and that of the men or man whom he might select to ac- 
company him ; so affectionate were the general's admonitions, and 
so great the emotion he displayed, that Brady left him with tears in 
his eyes, and repaired to his tent, where he found Phouts in deep 
conversation with one of his jyet Indians. 

He told Phouts of his success with the general, and that, as it 
was early in the light of the moon, they must get ready and be off 
betimes. 

They immediately set about cleaning their guns, preparing their 
ammunition, and having secured a small quantity of salt, they lay 
down together, and slept soundly until about two hours before day- 
break. Brady awoke first, and stirring Phouts, each took down the 
*' deadly rifle," and whilst all but the sentmels were wrapt in sleep, 
they left the little fort, and in a short time found themselves buried 
in the forest. That day they marched through woods never 
traversed by either of them before ; following the general course of 



304 BRADY AND THE DUTCHMAN. 

the river, they reached a small creek that put in from the Pittsburg 
side ; it was near night when they got there, and having no provi- 
sion, they concluded to remain there all night. 

Phouts struck a fire, and after having kindled a little, they 
covered it up with leaves and brush, to keep it in. They then pro- 
ceeded up the creek to look for game. About a mile from the 
mouth of the creek, a run comes into it ; upon this run was a lick 
apparently much frequented by deer. They placed themselves in 
readiness, and in a short time two deer came in ; Phouts shot one, 
which they skinned and carried over to their fire, and during the 
night jerked a great part of it. In the morning they took what they 
could carry of jerked, and hung the remainder on a small tree, in 
the skin, intending, if they were spared to return, to call for it on 
their way homeward. 

Next morning they started early and traveled hard all day ; near 
evening they espied a number of crows hovering over the tops of the 
trees, near the bank of the river. Brady told Phouts that there 
were Indians in the neighborhood, or else the men who were ex- 
pected from Susquehanna at Pittsburg were there encamped, or 
had been some time before. 

Phouts was anxious to go down and see, but Brady forbade him, 
telling him at the same time, "We must secrete ourselves till after 
night, when fires will be made by them, be they whom they may." 
Accordingly, they hid themselves amongst fallen timber, and re- 
mained so till about ten o'clock at night. But even then they 
could still see no fire. Brady concluded there must be a hill or 
thick woods between him and where the crows were seen, and de- 
cided on leaving his hiding place to ascertain the fact ; Phouts ac- 
companied him. They walked with the utmost caution down to- 
ward the river bank, and had gone about two hundred yards, when 



BRADY AND THE DUTCH^IAN. 



305 




^ms:.rmy 



^^ 



THE OLD INDIAN AT THE CAMP FIRE. 



they observed the twinkling of a fire, at some distance on their 
right. They at first thought the river made a very short bend, but 
on proceeding further they discovered it was a fork or branch of the 
river, probably the Kiskeminetas. Brady desired Phouts to stay 
where he was, intending to go himself 
v\ n\v^""~=^='^ U *Y ^.? to the fire, and see who was there ; but 



Phouts refused, 
saying, "No, by 
George, T vil see 
too." They ap- 
proached the fire 
together, but with 
the utmost care; 
and from appear- 
ances judged it to 
be an Indian en- 
campment, much too large to be attacked by them. Having re- 
solved to ascertain the number of the enemy, the captain of the 
spies and his brave comrade went close up to the fire, and discovered 
an old Indian sitting beside a tree near the fire, either mending or 
making a pair of moccasins. 

Phouts, who never thought of danger, was for shooting the Indian 
immediately ; but Brady prevented him. After examining carefully 
around the camp, he was of opinion that the number by which it was 
made had been large, but that they were principally absent. He de- 
termined on knowinng more in the morning; and forcing Phouts 
away with him, who was bent on killing the old Indian, he retired a 
short distance into the woods to await the approach of day. As 
soon as it appeared, they returned to the camp again, but saw no 
living thing, except the old Indian, a dog, and a horse. 
20 



306 BRADY AND THE DUTCHMAN. 

Brady wished to see the country around the camp, and understand 
its features better ; for this purpose he kept at some 'distance from 
it, and examined about, till he got on the river above it. Here he 
found a large trail of Indians, who had gone up the Allegheny ; to 
his judgment it appeared to have been made one or two days before. 
Upon seemg this, he concluded on going back to the camp, and 
taking the old Indian prisoner. 

Supposing the old savage to have arms about him, and not wish - 
mg to run the risk of the alarm the report of a rifle might create, 
if Indians were in the neighborhood, Brady determined to seize the 
old fellow single handed, without doing him further " scathe," and 
carry him off to Pittsburg. With this view both crept toward the 
camp again very cautiously. When they came so near as to per- 
ceive him, the Indian was lying on his back, with his head toward 
them. 

Brady ordered Phouts to remain where he was, and not to fire at 
all. unless the dog should attempt to assist his master. In that 
case he was to shoot the dog, but by no means to hurt the Indian. 
The plan bemg arranged, Brady dropped his rifle, and, tomahawk 
in hand, silently crept toward the "old man of the woods," till 
within a few feet, then raising himself up, he made a spring like a 
panther, and with a yell that awakened the echoes round, seized the 
Indian hard and fast by the throat. The old man struggled a little 
at first, but Brady's was the grip of a lion ; holding his tomahawk 
over the head of his prisoner, he bade him surrender, as he valued 
his life. The dog behaved very civilly ; he merely growled a little. 
Phouts came up and they tied their prisoner. On examining the 
camp they found nothing of value except some powder and lead, 
which they threw into the river. When the Indian learned that he 
was to be taken to Pittsburg, and would be kindly treated, he 



BRADY AND THE DUTCHMAN. 



307 



showed them a canoe which they stepped into with their prisoner 
and his dog, and were soon afloat on the smooth bosom of the 
Allegheny. 

They paddled swiftly along for the purpose of reaching the month 
of the run on vv^hich they had encamped coming up ; for Brady had 
left his wiping-rod there. It was late when they got to the creek's 
mouth. They landed, made a fire, and all laid down to sleep. 

As soon as daylight appeared, the captain started to where their 
jerk was hanging, leaving Phouts in charge of the prisoner and 
his canoe. He had not left the camp long, till the Indian com- 
plained to Phouts 
that the cords 
upon his wrists 
hurt him. He had 
probably discover- ^ 
ed that in Phouts' 
composition there 
was a much larger 
proportion of kind- 
ness than of fear. 

The Dutchman at ~<-^^'^!>:!^5.^^i^V ~ _^^..^^> 

once took off the '"^'^^"^ ^^° ™^ ^""" ^^ ^'' ^^"''• 

cords, and the Indian was, or pretended to be, very grateful. 

Phouts was busied with something else in a minute, and left his 
gun standing by a tree. The moment the Indian saw that the eye 
of the other was not upon him, he sprung to the tree, seized the gun, 
and the first Phouts knew was that it was cocked, and at his breast, 
whereupon he let out a most magnificent roar and jumped at the 
Indian. But the trigger was pulled, and the bullet whistled past 
liim, taking with it a part of his shot-pouch belt. One stroke of the 




308 MAJOR STOUT, THE REGULATOR. 

Dutchman's tomahawk settled the Indian forever, and nearly 
severed the head from his body. 

Brady heard the report of the rifle, and the yell of Phouts ; and 
supposing all was not right, ran instantly to the spot, where he 
found the latter sitting on the body of the Indian, examining the 
rent in his shot-pouch belt. '* In the name of Heaven," said Brady, 
" what have you done !" " Yust look, Gabtain," said the fearless 

Dutchman, " vas dis d d black b h vas apout ;" holding 

up to view the hole in his belt. He then related what has been 
stated with respect to his untying the Indian, and the attempt of the 
latter to kill him. They then took off the scalp of the Indian, got 
their canoe, took in the Indian's dog, and returned to Pittsburg, the 
fourth day after their departure. 

The captain related to the general what he had seen, and gave it 
as his opinion, that the Indians whose camp he had discovered, were 
about making an attack upon the Susquehanna settlement. The 
general was of the same opinion, and was much affected by the 
information ; for he had just made a requisition upon the country 
for men, and had been expecting them on every day. He now 
feared that the Indians would either draw them into an ambuscade 
and cut them off, or fall upon their families, rendered defenceless by 
their absence. 



MAJOK STOUT, THE REGULATOR. 

As late as the year 1852, there lived in the state of Kentucky a 
man who presented in his traits of character the most marked con- 
trast ever, perhaps, exhibited in one individual. A murderer 
by his own confession — a brute in all his instincts, he entertained 
the most bitter and malignant spirit of revenge against every one 



MAJOR STOUT, THE REGULATOR. 



309 



who did him an injury, however trivial, which invariably resulted in 
the sudden and violent death of the offending individual. His 

^, address was 




THE REGULATOR AND THE MONEY LENDER. 



ened upon him ; and although there were many who were ready to 
swear that he was the murderer, yet no legal proof could be obtained 
sufficient to base an indictment upon, and he died in his bed, at the 
age of eighty-two. Notwithstanding his murderous proclivities, he 
was an exemplary man in his family, and had a great regard for the 
, gentler sex, whose champion he was on all occasions, constituting 
himself a "Kegulator" of all wrongs inflicted upon them. The 
following instance of his decision " in equity" is characteristic. 

There lived in the neighborhood the widow of a man with whom 
he had a slight acquaintance, and who had left to his family a tract 
of three hundred acres of land, and a few negroes. There was a 
slight mortgage of two or three hundred dollars on the property, 
however, which, in time, became due ; and the widow, inexperienced 
in such matters, began to fear the loss of her comfortable home. A 



310 MAJOR STOUT, THE REGULATOR. 

near neighbor, professing a deep sympathy in her distress, offered to 
loan her the necessary amount to redeem her property, which offer 
was accepted, and a new mortgage given to the hind neighbor 
bearing interest at the rate of sixti/ per cent, per annum. Thus it 
stood for several years, the interest" being added up every ninety days, 
made principal, and a note taken from the widow, to be tacked to 
the mortgage, until the whole amounted to more than the land would 
sell for under foreclosure, when the kind neighbor obtained a bill of 
sale of her negroes. 

The position of matters became known, and Stout, having satisfied 
himself by a look at the records, shouldered his rifle one morning, 
without saying a word to any one, and went to look after the money- 
lender, whom he discovered in his cornfield, at a distance from his 

own or any other dwelling, engaged in shooting squirrels — those busy 

depredators upon his roasting ears. 

He was suddenly confronted by Stout — the man whom, of all 

others, he dreaded, and, least of all, wished to see — with his rifle 

cocked and presented to his breast, who commanded him in a 

threatening tone to " throw down that gun." 

The affrighted usurer obeyed, and, in trembling accents exclaimed, 

" My God ! uncle Bill, what is the matter ; what harm have I ever 

done you ?" 

" Oh, none that I know of," said Stout ; " but old Master," turning 

his eyes upwards, "has sent me for you. He says you are not fit to 

live among men, and has told me to kill you, and throw you into that 

sink hole." 

"Oh ! Major Stout, have mercy upon me," said Avery — as we shall 

call him — throwing himself upon his knees, " oh, have mercy upon 

me." 

"Well, now," replied Stout, "don't pray to me! pray to old 



MAJOR STOUT, THE REGULATOR. 311 

Master, for he says you must die. If you want, I'll give you time to 
pray to him ; but you must be quick about it. Maybe he'll help you ; 
I can't." 

Fully believing in the certainty of approaching death, the usurer 
engaged in earnest supplications to God for mercy, and among other 
ejaculations was, " Oh, Lord ! have mercy on my poor wife and 
children." 

As these words were uttered, a demoniac scowl passed over the 
face of Stout, who still stood with his rifle at the other's breast, and 
said, " Aye, now, that's a good prayer, and while you pray for your 
wife and children, pray also for King's widow and orphans, whom 
you have ruined. Maybe old Master will then do something good 
for you." 

" Oh !" said Avery, " I'll do any thing you say I must for Mrs. 
King and her poor little children — only spare my life, Major." 

*' I cannot spare your life unless old Master tells me to," said 
Stout, and the poor trembling wretch again addressed his prayers to 
Heaven, praying for the widow and her children, each by name. 

And while in the fervor and earnestness of his petition in their 
behalf, he was interrupted by Stout, who said, " Ah ! that's the right 
way to pray ! Didn't you say a while ago that you was willing to 
do any thing I said you ought for Mrs. King and her children ?" 

" Oh ! yes," replied Avery, as the tears streamed down his pallid 
cheeks, " I'll do any thing for them you say.' 

" Well, old Master has told me if you will do what I tell you I 
may spare your life. Now, you must give up her negroes, for whom 
you have her bill of sale, and execute and record a release of the 
mortgage you hold on her land." 

" Oh ! I'll do it. Major ; I'll do it now — any thing you require." 

" Well," said Stout, " we'll see ;" and taking a sheet of paper from 



312 



MAJOR STOUT, THE REGULATOR. 




THE HUMBLED USURER. 



the crown of his hat, a penful of ink from his ink-vial, which he 
carried suspended by a piece of string to a button of his vest, he 
seated himself upon a fallen 
log — a position he was ac- 
customed to, and vv'ould 
have preferred to the most 
convenient desk in a mer- "^i 
chant's counting-room — and 
began to write out a bill of 
sale for the negroes, and a ( 
release of the mortgage 
upon the widow's property. 
Both being finished, were 
read over to the kneeling 
supplicant slowly and distinctly, and Stout then said: "This" 
(presenting the bill of sale) " you must now sign, and I will witness 
it, and keep it for Mrs. King ; and this" (presenting the release) 
" you must also sign ; but as it has to be recorded in the county 
clerk's office, you must go to-morrow morning to the clerk, and 
acknowledge it for record before him, as it is best not to have to 
call in two witnesses. This is a matter between us alone, and I 
want no witnesses. 

And now, upon two conditions, old Master tells me I may spare 
your life. Now, you know I will kill you, go where you will, if you 
fail to comply ; if you do not meet me to-morrow morning at the 
clerk's office, in Russelville, between nine and ten o'clock, to 
acknowledge the release. This is one condition. And if you raise 
a talk or fass about it, now or hereafter, I will assuredly kill you. 
Nothing but death shall save you from my vengeance." 

The usurer solemnly engaged to comply with all the major required 



DESPERATE ADVENTURE OF COLONEL MCLANE, 313 

of him. He then signed his name to the papers. Stout attested 
them, and put them in his pocket-book, when, as it was near night, 
after again admonishing Avery to be prompt to his engagement, he 
started for his home at Eusselville, a distance of thirteen miles, while 
his humbled victim gathered up his gun and hat, and started for his 
house, not a little nervous from the scene he had passed through. 
It may be questioned whether he slept much that night. Howbeit, 
he appeared at Eusselville punctually at the hour named, and 
repairing to the clerk's office, acknowledged the release to be his 
own act and deed, and it is not known to this day that he ever com- 
plained in any way, or even whispered the affair to any one. Stout 
did, however, more than once ; and triumphantly referred to the 
record, as proof of the truth of the story. 

The reader may doubt whether the threats of Stout were more 
than a mere hoax. He is assured, however, that they were not so 
intended. Avery knew the indomitable will and energy of the man. 
and knowing of similar affairs which had ended more tragically, he 
tvas well aware that Stout's threats would be executed if he had not 
complied with his demands. He thought it better, therefore, to 
lose the laud than his life. 



DESPERATE ADVENTURE OF COLONEL McLANE. 

CoLoxEL Allen McLane, who died at Wilmington, Del., in 1829, 
at the patriarchal age of eighty-three, was distinguished for his 
personal courage, and for his activity as a partizan officer. He was 
long attached to Major Lee's famous legion of horse. While the 
British occupied Philadelphia, McLane was constantly scouring the 
upper ends of Bucks and Montgomery counties, to cut off the scout- 
ing parties of the enemy, and intercept their supplies of provisions. 



314 



DESPERATE ADVENTURE OP COLONEL MCLANE- 



Having agreed, for some purpose, to rendezvous near Shoemaker- 
town. Colonel McLane ordered his little band of troopers to follow 
at some distance, and commanded two of them to precede the main 
body, but also to keep in his rear ; and if they discovered an enemy, 
to ride up to his side and inform him of it, without speaking aloud. 
While leisurely approaching the place of rendezvous in this order, 
in the early gray of the morning, the two men directly in the rear, 
forgetting their orders, suddenly called out, " Colonel, the British !" 
faced about, and putting spurs to their horses, were soon out of 
sight. The colonel looking around, discovered that he was in the 
centre of a powerful ambuscade, into which the enemy had silently 
allowed him to pass without his observing them. They lined both 
sides of the road, and had been stationed there to pick up any 

straggling party of 
Americans that 
might chance t o 
pass. 

Immediately on 
finding they were 
discovered, a file 
of soldiers rose 
from the side of 
the highway, and 
fired at the colonel, 
but without effect ; 
and as he put spurs to his horse, and mounted the road-side into 
the woods, the other part of the detachment also fired. The colonel 
miraculously escaped ; but a shot striking his horse upon the flank, 
he dashed through the woods, and in a few minutes reached a 
parallel road upon the opposite side of the forest. Being familiar 




THE SHOT AND THE FLIGHT. 



DESPERATE ADVENTURE OF COLONEL MCLANE. 315 

with the country, he feared to turn to the left, as that course led to 
the city, and he might be intercepted by another ambuscade. Turn- 
ing therefore, to the right, his frightened horse carried him swiftly 
beyond the reach of those who had fired upon him. All at once, 
however, on emerging from a piece of woods, he observed several 
British troops stationed near the road-side, and directly in sight 
ahead, a farm-house, around which he observed a whole troop of the 
enemy's cavalry drawn up. He dashed by the troops near him 
without being molested, they believing he was on his way to the 
main body to surrender himself. The farm-house was situated at 
the intersection of two roads, presenting but two avenues by which 
he could escape. 

Nothing daunted by the formidable array before him, he galloped 
up to the cross roads, on reaching which he spurred his active horse, 
turned suddenly to the right, and was soon fairly out of reach of 
their pistols, though as he turned, he heard them call loudly to sur- 
render or die ! A dozen were instantly in pursuit ; but in a short 
time they all gave up the pursuit except two. Col. McLane's horse, 
scared by the first wound he had received, and being a chosen 
animal, kept ahead for several miles, while his two pursuers followed 
with unwearied eagerness. The pursuit at length waxed so hot, that, 
as the colonel's horse stepped out of a small brook which crossed 
the road, his pursuers entered it at the opposite margin. In ascend- 
ing a little hill, the horses of the three were greatly exhausted, so 
much so, that neither could be urged faster than a walk. 

Occasionally, as one of the troopers pursued on, a little in advance 
of his companion, the colonel slackened his pace, anxious to be 
attacked by one of the two ; but no sooner was his willingness dis- 
covered, than the other fell back to his station. They at length 
approached so near, that a conversation took place between them ; 



316 THE BACKWOODSMAN AND THE TURKEY. 

the troopers calling out, " surrender you d d rebel, or we'll 

cut you in pieces." Suddenly one of them rode up on the right side 
of the colonel, and, without drawing his sword, laid hold of the 
colonel's collar. The latter, to use his own words, " had pistols 
lohicli lie kneiu he could depend on." Drawing one from the holster, 
he placed it to the heart of his antagonist, fired, and tumbled him 
dead on the ground, Instantly the other came upon his left, with 
his sword drawn, and also seized the colonel by the collar of his 
coat. A fierce and deadly struggle here ensued, in the course of 
which Col. McLane was desperately wounded in the back of his left 
hand, the sword of his antagonist cutting assunder the veins and 
tendons of that member. 

Seeing a favorable opportunity, he drew his other pistol, and with 
a steadiness of purpose, which appeared even in his recital of the 
incident, placed it directly between the eyes of his adversary, pulled 
the trigger, and scattered his brains on every side of the road ! 
Fearing that others were in pursuit, he abandoned his horse in the 
highway; and apprehensive, from his extreme weakness, that he 
might die from loss of blood, he crawled into an adjacent mill-pond, 
entirely naked, and at length succeeded in stopping the profuse 
flow of blood occasioned by his wound. 



THE BACK"WOODSMA]Xr AND THE TUBKEY. 

"What are you doing with that gun, Jim?" said a tall, spare 
man to a young lad, who was sitting on a stump in the open space 
of a '' station," repairing the lock of an old rifle which was some- 
what out of order. 

" I am going to shoot that turkey," said the youth. 



THE BACKWOODSMAN AND THE TURKEY. 



31t 



" "What turkey? I don't see any turkey." 

" Don't you hear that turkey gobbling on the hill-side yonder ?" 
replied the youth. " I've heard him this half-hour, and I'm going to 
have a shot at him as soon as I get this gun fixed." 

"I don't believe there's any turkey there, youngster ; I haven't 
heard one, and I reckon my ears are about as good as yours." 

"You haven't, eh! just listen — there; did you hear that? ain't 
that a gobbler ?" 

The man listened until the noise was again repeated, and then 
remarked, "I reckon you'd better not try to shoot that turkey; 
more'n likely he'd. _-^^=^; ^^^''^- '^^^^^ 
shoot you." ^^ I /_^ 

The lad did not un- i 




THE HUNTER AND THE INDIAN UKOOY. 

derstand the drift of his meaning, and persisted in his intention of 
" trying a shot at him any way ;" and the other, thinking, doubtless, 
that it would be useless to persuade him of the true state of the 
case, remarked, " I'll go shoot it." 

" No you shan't," said the lad ; " I heard it first, and I've the best 
right to it ; it's mine, and I'm going to shoot it." 



318 THE BACKWOODSMAN AND THE TURKEY. 

" Well ! but you know I'm the best shot," said the raan, " and 
maybe you might miss him. A wild turkey's a mighty scary bird, 
and it ain't every youngster that knows how to fire a rifle that knows 
how to shoot one ; I reckon you'd better let me shoot him : I've 
know'd many a feller go out to shoot a gobbler that never cum back 
agin, and it ain't judgmatical for a youngster like you to be skirting 
out through the woods when there's so many red skins about." 

"I don't care," persisted the lad; "that's my turkey, and I'm 
going after him ; I ain't afraid of red-skins." 

"Well, boy, I don't want the turkey, but as I'm a better shot 
than you are, I'll go get him, and you may have him for all I care." 

These terms were agreed to ; for the lad knew that the hunter 
was not excelled as a marksman in the country round about, and 
also knew him to be a man of his word. 

The station where the above conversation occurred had been built 
for the protection of the early settlers in the neighborhood of 
Clarksburg, Harrison County, Virginia, and at the time was occu- 
pied by many of their families, who had been driven to take shelter 
therein from an alarm caused by the discovery of Indian " sign" in 
the vicinity. The alarm had somewhat subsided, and most of them 
were preparing to return to their homes. The lad was a member 
of one of the families, and, like the rest, had become restless at the 
confinement of the station ; it was therefore with considerable re- 
luctance that he consented that the hunter should go after the 
turkey, but there was something in his tone and words, as well as in 
his pertinacity, which struck the lad as singular, and his fears were 
aroused without knowing why ; hence his assent. 

Jesse Hughes, the hunter, was one of those noble woodsmen whom 
a life in the forest, and constant strife with the red men, had made 
proficient in all the arts of woodcraft ; and having been brought up 



THE BACKWOODSMAN AND THE TURKEY. 319 

from infancy in the hot-bed of Indian warfare, and having associated 
with most of those brave pioneers who had been the first to enter 
the domain of the Indian west of the Alleghanies, he had become 
an expert in all those arts and practices of the red men, which, 
added to the superior sagacity of 
the white man, has made the 
former succumb to 
the latter, and 
yield up, step by 
step, his hunting- 
grounds, h i s 
homes, and the 
graves of his sires. 
Of a cold, taciturn 
disposition, it was 
not his wont to 
give his reasons for any thing he did, preferring to convince by the 
force of example than to explain the whys and wherefores of his 
actions. On the present occasion he wished to give the lad a 
striking lesson in woodcraft, and impress upon his mind the neces- 
sity of caution and watchfulness, especially when " the red skins 
were around." 

To the ear of Hughes, trained as it had been in the severe school 
of Indian warfare, there was something in the sound of the gobbling 
on the hill-side which convinced him that the turkey who made it 
wore a scalp-lock, and carried a rifle. Saying nothing of his 
suspicions, however, he made his exit from the fort on the opposite 
side to that from whence the sound appeared to come, and with the 
stealthy tread of a cat, made his way along the river, which run on 
that side, taking advantage of every shrub, bush, and tree, to shelter 
himself from view. 




THE INDIAN S LAST GOBBLE. 



320 THE BACKWOODSMAN AND THE TURKEY. 

After proceeding for nearly a quarter of a mile in a direction which 
led him away from the sound, he struck off to his left into the woods 
and began to ascend the hill. He was not sure but that he might 
find an enemy when he least expected to, and hence his progress 
was very slow, and guarded by all the finesse of an experienced 
scout. At times, when the wood was open, he would trail his body 
along on the ground, taking advantage of every old log and stump 
and shrub to screen his movements, and when a thicket or clump of 
underbrush offered its friendly shelter, he would make use of it to 
study his ground and listen for the sound which directed his next 
advance. In this cautious manner he proceeded, making his way 
always up, but always with a noiseless tread — not a twig being 
broken, nor a leaf rustled under his moccasined feet — until he had 
reached a point considerably above the spot where the supposed 
turkey ought to be. 

Here he stopped to listen for the sound again, and was surprised to 
hear it repeated somewhat nearer than he had countecK upon. 
Drawing himself back, he lay quietly down upon his face, and slowly 
dragging his rifle with him, moved with a gradually undulating 
motion forward. Just in front of him, at the distance of one 
hundred yards or a little more, was an open space, from whence the 
sound appeared to proceed, and where he felt sure of finding his 
game. Between him and this open space was a thicket of hazel- 
bushes which effectually sheltered his approach, but at the same 
time would prevent his getting close enough to fire without some 
little noise. This he knew would not answer, and he carefully 
looked about him for an opening. 

At length, observing a space on his left, where a tree had been 
cut down, he dragged himself carefully toward it, and, using the 
stump as a shield to his person, gradually drew himself up behind it. 



THE BACKWOODSMAN AND THE TURKEY. 321 

Here he cautiously raised his head, and discovered — what he had 
expected to find — an Indian, sitting on a chestnut-stump, surrounded 
by the young sprouts which had started up around it, gobbling in 
imitation of a turkey, and watching to see if any one came from 
the fort to shoot it. In much less time than it requires to tell it, 
there was a flash and a report, and the turlcey lay quivering in the 
agonies of death. 

Darting into the hazel-bushes, Hughes lay quiet for at least a 
quarter of an hour, during which time he reloaded his rifle, and then, 

satisfied that there 
were no other In- 
dians in the imme- 
diate neighbor- 
hood, he took the 
scalp and rifle of 
the poor fellow he 
had shot, and made 
his way to the fort. 
On reaching it, he 
THE hunter's retcrn. was accostcd by the 

lad, who had anxiously waited to hear the report of Hughes's rifle, 
and was now equally as anxiously awaiting the coveted prize. 

On beholding the hunter returning without the turkey, he ex- 
claimed, " There now ! I knew you would let the turkey go. I would 
have killed him if I had gone." 

" Don't be so sure of that, youngster ; it might have taken two to 
make that bargain. I didn't let him go." 
"Where is he then?" said Jim. 

"There's your turkey, Jim ; take it. I don't want it," said Hughes, 
at the same time throwing down the scalp. 
21 




322 



THE INDIANS AND THE HOLLOW LOG. 



The lad looked at it for a moment, and, when he appreciated the 
danger which he had escaped, purely through the foresight, keen 
perception, and management of the hunter, he was so overcome that 
he nearly fainted away. 



THE INDIAN'S AND THE HOLLOW LOG. 

In the fall of 1781 a man was captured in the vicinity of Fort 
Plain, by seven Indians, and hurried off into the wilderness. At 

night the party halted at 
a deserted log tenement. 
The Indians built a fire, and 
after supper gathered 
around it discussing the 
misfortunes of their expedi- 
tion, which thus far had re- 
sulted in but a few scalps, 
and but one prisoner. They 
therefore resolved to kill 
and scalp their captive in 
the morning, and return 




THE TENANT OF THE HOLLOW L0«. 



toward the Mohawk with the hope of better success. Upon this 
conclusion they stretched themselves upon the floor for sleep, with 
their prisoner between two of them, who was bound by cords which 
were also fastened to the bodies of his keepers. The whole of the 
discussion carried on by the savages was understood by the captive, 
who, in the greatest alarm at his approaching fate, began to tax 
his ingenuity for some way to escape. The Indians were soon in a 
sound slumber, but their white companion kept wide awake, vainly 
striving to devise a plan for his escape, and beginning to despair 



THE INDIANS AND THE HOLLOW LOG. 323 

and to yield himself to his doom, when, as he accidentally moved 
his hand upon the floor, it rested upon a fragment of broken window 
glass. 

No sooner did the prisoner seize the glass, than a ray of hope 
entered his bosom, and with this frail assistant he instantly set 
about regaining his liberty. He commenced severing the rope 
across his breast, and soon it was stranded. The moment was one 
of intense excitement ; he knew that it was the usual custom for one 
or more of an Indian party to keep watch and prevent the escape 
of their prisoners. Was he then watched ? Should he go on, with 
the possibility of hastening his own doom, or wait and see if some 
remarkable interposition of Providence might save him ? A monitor 
within whispered, " Faith without Avorks is dead," and after a little 
pause in his efforts, he resumed them, and soon had parted another 
strand : and as no movement was made, he tremblingly cut another ; 
it was the last, and as it yielded he sat up. 

He was then enabled to take a midnight view of the group around 
him, in the feeble light reflected from the moon through a small 
window of a single sash. The enemy appeared to sleep, and he soon 
separated the cords across his limbs. He then advanced to the fire 
and raked open the coals, which reflected their partial rays upon 
the j)ainted visages of those misguided heathen, whom British gold 
had bribed to deeds of damning darkness ; and being fully satisfied 
that all were sound asleep, he approached the door. 

The Indians had a large watch-dog outside the house. He 
cautiously opened the door, sprang out and ran. nnd as he had 
anticipated, the dog was yelling at his heels. He had about twenty 
rods to run across a cleared field before he could reach the woods : 
and as he neared them, he looked back, and in the clear light of the 
moon, saw the Indians all in pursuit. As he neared the forest, 



324 THE INDIANS AND THE HOLLOW LOG. 

they all drew up their rifles and fired upon him, at which instant a 
strong vine caught his foot and he fell to the ground. The volley 
of balls passed over him, and bounding to his feet, he gained the 
beechen shade. Not far from where he entered he had noticed, the 
preceding evening, a large hollow log, and on coming to it, he 
sought safety within it. The dog, at first, ran several rods past the 
log, which served to mislead the party, but soon returned near it, 
and ceased barking, without a visit to the entrance of the captive's 
retreat. 

The Indians sat down over him, and talked about their prisoner's 
escape. They finally come to the conclusion, that he had either 
ascended a tree near, or the devil had aided him, which to them 
appeared the most reasonable conclusion. As morning was ap- 
proaching, they determined on taking an early breakfast, and return- 
ing to the river settlements, leaving one of their number to keep a 
vigilant watch in that neighborhood, for their captive, until after- 
noon of the following day, when he was to join his fellows at a 
designated place. This plan settled, an Indian proceeded to an 
adjoining field, where a small flock of sheep had not escaped their 
notice, and shot one of them. While enough of the mutton was 
dressing* to satisfy their immediate wants, others of the party struck 
up a fire, which they chanced, most unfortunately for his comfort, to 
build against the log directly opposite their lost prisoner. 

The heat became almost intolerable to the tenant of the fallen 
basswood, before the meat was cooked — besides, the smolcc and 
steam which found their way through the small worm holes and 
cracks, had nearly suffocated him, ere he could sufficiently stop their 
ingress, which was done by thrusting a quantity of leaves and part 
of his own clothing into the crannies. A cough, which he knew 
would insure his death, he found it most difticult to avoid : to back 



THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 



325 



out of his hiding place would also seal his fate, while to remain in 

it much longer, he felt conscious, would render his situation, to say 

the least, not enviable. 
After suffering most acutely in body and mind for a time, the 

prisoner (who was again such by accident) found his miseries allevi- 
ated when the In- 
dians began to eat, 
as they then let 
the fire burn down, 
and did not again 
replenish it. After 
they had dispatch- 
ed their breakfast 
of mutton, the 
prisoner heard the 

DRAWING A BEE LINE FOR FORT PLAIN. ICadCr CaUtlOU the 

one left to watch in that vicinity, to be wary, and soon heard the 
retiring footsteps of the rest of the party. Often during the morn- 
ing, the watchman was seated or standing over him. 

Not having heard the Indian for some time, and believing the 
hour of his espionage past, he cautiously crept out of the log ; and 
finding himself alone, being prepared by fasting and steaming for a 
good race, he drew a bee-line for Fort Plain, which he reached in 
safety, beleiving, as he afterward stated, that all the Indians in the 
state could not have overtaken him in his flight. 




THE TRAVELEK AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 
Some years ago, when horse thieves, negro stealers, gamblers. 
id est omne genus, were much more common in the Arkansas country 



326 



THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 



than they are to-day, a party of six or eight borderers were one cool 
evening in November, collected around the bar-room fire of the 
Jetferson House, in a place well known, but which it suits our 
purpose not to name. They were rather a rough-looking set of 
fellows take them all iri all ; and at the moment we introduce them, 
were attentively listening to the wonderful exploits of one Kelser, 




"everybody round here," said the bully, "must drink or fight. 
who was known in those parts as the leader of a gang of bullying 
scoundrels — though the persons to whom he was talking, being 
comparative strangers, permitted him the rare enjoyment of telling 
his story, spreading his fame, and making himself a hero in a new 
quarter. 

Winding up the detail of his sixth bloody duel and rencounter 
with an oath, he added, by way of a climax : ; 

" I'm one of them as is never afeard of any thing — white, black, 
or red— and all I want is (displaying the hilt of his bowie knife) for 
any body to show me the fellow as says I is." 



THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 327 

As he spoke h§ straightened himself up, bent his round, bullet- 
head forward, and brought his face, with its pug nose, thin, sneering 
lips, ana small, black, somewhat bloodshot eyes, to bear upon each 
of those present, and with a defiant expression, which seemed to say 
as plainly as words : 

" Who dares contradict me ?" 

No one made any answer; and each eye, if it did not quail, at least 
fell before the contemptuous guuice of the braggadocio. 

" Yes," he repeated, with another oath, " I'm one of them as is never 
afeard of any thing, as I said afore ; and to prove it, I'll tell ye of 
my fight with Dezter — Rash Dexter, as we used to call him," 

And then, with the air of one perfectly satisfied that he was a hero, 
which no man dared dispute, he was proceeding with his story, when 
a tall, slender individual, in the dress of a northern traveler, some- 
what dusty, and with a pair of saddle-bags thrown across his arm, 
quietly entered the inn. 

Approaching the bar — whither the landlord, who was one of the 
party at the fire, immediately repaired— the stranger mildly inquired 
if he could be entertained for the night. 

"Certainly, sir," returned Boniface, with a cheerful air. "A 
horse, I reckon, sir ?" 

The traveler nodded ; and while he proceeded to divest himself 
of his overcoat, and deposit his traveling equipments with the host, 
the latter called to a black servant, and ordered him to attend to the 
gentleman's beast. 

"Supper, sir?" pursued the landlord, with an eye to business. 

Again the traveler nodded ; and perceiving the fire was surrounded 
by the party already mentioned, and evidently not wishing to intrude 
himself among strangers, he quietly took his seat by a table near the 
wall. 



3'2i$ THE TRAYELEK AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 

Meantime he had not escaped notice — as no new-comer in such a 
place does ; but while most of the company scanned him somewhat 
furtively, Kelser, the egotistical hero of his own bloody exploits, 
angered by the interruption, stopped his narration, and regarded 
him with a savage scowl. 

''Another d — d Yankee — I'll bet high on't !" he said, in a sneering, 
grating tone, intended to disconcert, irritate and insult the traveler. 

The latter, however, seemed to take no notice of the remark ; but 
turning to the table, upon which there chanced to be lying an old 
paper, he picked it up, as it were, mechanically, and soon appeared 
to be deeply absorbed in its contents. 

This quiet inoffensive proceeding served to irritate the ruffian still 
more ; but contenting himself for the time by muttering something 
about all Yankees being cowards, he turned to the others, and pro- 
ceeded with his story — speaking somewhat louder than usual — 
especially when he came to the bloody details of his narrative — as if 
to arrest the attention of the stranger, and impress him unfavorably. 

Finding the latter was not in the least disturbed, however, Kelser 
closed with a tremendous oath ; and then, turning to the landlord, 
who had once more joined the party, he inquired, in a loud tone, if 
he thought there were any " cussed thieves amongst 'em from 
abroad ?" 

" Hush !" returned the host, in a low, cautious tone ; " don't go 
for to make a muss here, I beg of you — for such things ruin a man's 
house 1" 

" Do you want to take up on that fellow's side ?" sneered the bully, 
fixing his black, snaky eyes upon the host, with an expression that 
made the latter quail. 

" Oh, no, Kelser — I don't want to take any thing up ; and so I beg 
you won't say nothing to him. Come, let's take a drink all round, 
and call it quits." 



THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 



329 



''In course we'll take a drink," returned the other, with a coarse 
laugh ; " and as it's to be all round, why, we'll have it all round." 

Saying this, and rising as he spoke, he walked over to the inoffen- 
eive traveler, with a swaggering air, and, slapping him somewhat 
heavily on the shoulder, said, roughly : 

" How d'ye do, stranger ?" 

The man looked up with something like a start, and displayed 
features in striking contrast with those of his interrogator. He 
seemed about five-and-twenty years 
of age — had a smooth, broad, high 
forehead — a rather Grecian, slight- 
ly effeminate, and 
almost beardless 
face — and mild, 
soft, pleasant blue 
eyes — the general 
expression of the 
whole countenance 
denoting one of a 

, n ■• • 1 "DO YOU INTEND TO MURDEK ME?" INQUIRED THE STRANGER. 

naturally timid, re- 
tiring and unobtrusive disposition. Fixing his eyes upon the bully — 
rather with the air of one who did not exactly comprehend the cause 
of being so rudely disturbed, than with any thing like anger or re- 
sentment at the harsh, unceremonious interruption — he seemed to 
wait for the latter to volunteer some explanation of his uncivil 
proceeding, 

"I said, how d'ye do, stranger?" repeated Kelser ; "but you don't 
seem to understand the civil thing." 

At this the crowd, in expectation of a quarrel, at once started up, 
and silently gathered around the bully and the traveler. This 




330 THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 

seemed to startle the latter a little, and glancing quickly from one 
to the other, he replied : 

" I am very well, if that is what you wish to know ; but really I 
do not comprehend why you should be so solicitous about my 
health." 

" There's a great many things that you d — d Yankees don't com- 
prehend !" rejoined Kelser, with a chuckling laugh. 

" What does this mean, gentlemen ?" inquired the traveler, turn- 
ing a little pale — his mild, blue eyes beginning to gleam with a 
strange, peculiar light — at the same time rising and glancing from 
one to the other, till his gaze rested upon the troubled visage of his 
host. " What have I done that any one here should seek to insult 
me ? Do you permit this, sir ?" he added, addressing the innkeeper. 

"He can't help himself," interposed the bully, "If there's any 
body as wants to insult you, it's me ; and Bill Kelser always does 
what he likes — any where, and with any body?" 

" And why do you seek to quarrel with a man that never saw or 
exchanged a word with you before !" quietly asked the stranger, his 
lips slightly quivering, either with fear or suppressed anger — a soft 
glow diffusing itself over his whole face — and the pupils of his eyes 
seeming to expand, and grow dark, and gleam even more strangely 
than before. 

" Because I hate all you cussed Yankees ; and whenever I see one 
of your tribe, I always feel like cutting his heart out ! for I'm one 
of those as never knowed what it was to fear eyther man or devil !" 

" Come !'■ interposed the landlord, taking the bully by the arm — 
" we was going to take a drink, you know !" 

"Yes, I'm in for that too !" said Kelser — " always good at eyther 
a drink or a fight, I am. You hear, stranger?" he continued, taking 
hold of the latter's arm somewhat roughly. " You hear, don't you ? 



THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 331 

We're going to take a drink with the landlord ; and if yon can prove 
you're a decent white man, we'll honor you by taking another with 
you afterward." 

" I shall have no objection to treat, if the gentlemen here think I 
ought to do so," returned the traveler, drawing himself up with 
dignified firmness, and speaking in a more positive manner than he 
had yet done ; " but as for drinking myself, that is something I 
never do." 

Nothing at that moment could have pleased the bully better than 
to hear the stranger refuse to drink ; for he hud long since resolved 
upon a quarrel with him ; first, from natural malice ; secondly, 
because he believed him one to be easily disposed of; and thirdly, 
because he might thus make a grand display of his fighting quali- 
ties, with little or no risk to himself — a very important considera- 
tion, when we bear in mind that all such characters are arrant 
cowards at heart. 

" So you don't drink, eh ?" he said to the stranger. " D'ye hear 
that, gentlemen ?" appealing to the crowd. " Now every body 
round here has to drink or fight ! And so (walking up to the 
traveler) you've got to do one or t'other — which shall it be ?" 

" T do not wish to do either," was the reply ; " but drink I will 
not !" 

"Then fight you shall!" cried the other, closing the sentence 
with a wicked oath, and at the same time laying lys hand upon the 
hilt of his bowie knife, and partly drawing it from its sheath. 

" Do you intend to murder me ? or give me a chance for ray life ?" 
inquired the stranger, with a coolness that astonished those who, 
looking upon his fine, delicate features, and slender figure, expected 
to see him shrink back in alarm and dismay. 

" Give you a chance, in course !" returned the bully, in a less 



332 THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 

confident tone — for be too had expected to see the other succumb 
at once. 

" Do you challenge me to a fair combat ?" inquired the other. 

" In course I does," blustered Kelser ; *' we don't do nothing else, 
in this country, but the fair thing/' 

The affair now began to look serious. 

" Gentlemen," said the traveler, with a polite bow to the company 
in general, " you know how quietly I came in here, and how inoffen- 
sively I conducted myself afterward ; and you have seen how this 
man has ventured beyond all rules of good breeding, and stepped 
out of his way to insult and fix a quarrel upon me. Now, then, as I 
am a stranger here — though one who has heard much of southern 
chivalry — I wish to know how many of you will agree to stand by 
and see fair play ?" 

"All ! all of us !" was the almost simultaneous response. "You 
shall have fair play, stranger !" 

The bully turned slightly pale, and seemed more discomposed and 
uneasy. 

" I thank you, gentlemen, for convincing me, by your offer, that 
you are governed by justice and honor !" pursued the traveler ; 
" and now I will prove to you that this man is a cowardly bragga- 
docio, or else one of us shall not quit this place alive ! It is under- 
stood that I am challenged to a single fight, is it not ?" 

There was a general affirmative response. 

"The challenged party, I believe, has the choice of weapons, 
time, and place ?" 

Another affirmative response — the bully looking still paler and 
more anxious. 

" Well, then, gentlemen, not being handy with the bowie knife, 
and wishing an equal chance for life, I propose to leave the result to 



y 



THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 333 

fate, and so test the courage of my opponent. Any man can stand 
up for a fight if he knows he has the best of it — but only true 
courage can coolly face uncertainty— and my insulter boasts of 
fearing nothing. My proposition is this : Let two pistols be selected 
— one be loaded — and both be concealed under a cloth upon this 
table. Then my fighting friend and myself shall draw one by lot, 

point the drawn one at the heart of his 

foe, and pull the trigger — the unarmed 

g one standing firm, and receiving the 

^^ charge or not as heaven shall 

will ! Is not this fair ?" 

" Perfectly fair !" coincided 
all except Kelser, who de- 
murred, and swore that no- 
body but a Yankee would 
ever have thought of such a 

THE STRAXGER NEITHER BLANCHED KOR CHANGED Jieathenish Way Of doiug 

EXPRESSION. business. 

" Did I not tell you he was a coward — this fellow, who, a few 
minutes ago, feared neither man nor devil ?"' sneered the stranger, 
thus drawing a laugh from the company, who now seemed to be all 
on his side. 

The landlord now objected to the affair taking place in his house — 
but on one of the company taking him aside, and whispering in his 
ear, he made no further opposition. 

Accordingly, Kelser reluctantly consenting, one was chosen to 
prepare the pistols, which were immediately produced ; and in less 
than ten minutes they were placed under a cloth upon the table. 

" I waive all right to the first choice," said the stranger, as he and 
Kelser were brought face to face in their proper positions. 




334 



THE TRAVELER AND THE ARKANSAS BULLY. 



The bully, who was really very much alarmed, and who showed it 
in his pale face, trembling limbs, and quivering muscles, at once 
seemed to brighten at this concession ; and thrusting his hand under 
the cloth, he drew forth one of the weapons, presented it at the 
breast of the other, and pulled the trigger. 

It did not fire; but the stranger, who knew not that it was 
unloaded, neither blanched nor changed expression. The crowd 
applauded, and the bully grew ghastly pale. 

"It is my turn now!" said the traveler, in a quiet, determined 
tone, fixing his blue eye steadily upon the cowering form of Kelser. 

This was more than the latter could stand. 

" No, I'll be d — d if it is !" he shouted ; and instantly drawing the 
other pistol, he presented it, and pulled the trigger also. 

But with a like result — for neither pistol was loaded — the com- 
pany having secretly resolved to test .ui | ii|!|iji| ' 
the courage of both without blood- 
shed. 

Throwing down the pistol with a 
bitter curse, amid a universal 
cry of " Shame ! shame !" 
Kelser whipped out his knife, 
and made a rush for his an- 
tagonist. But the latter, 
gliding quickly around the 
table, suddenly stopped, and 
exclaimed : 

'' Three times at my life — and now once at yours !" 

And with these ominous words he raised his arm quickly ; the 
next instant there was a flash, a crack, and the bully fell heavily 
forward, shot throun-h the brain. 




THE BULLY FELL HEAVILY FORWARD, SHOT 
THROUGH THE BRAIN, 



A RACE FOR LIFE. 



335 



The verdict of the jury who sat upon the case, was justifiable 
homicide — and the blue-eyed stranger resumed his journey as if 
nothing had happened. 

Would you know who he is ? If we named him, we should name 
one who now holds a high official position ; and for many reasons we 
prefer he should be known only by those who are already cognizant 
of the incident we have recorded. 



A EACE FOR LIFE. 

Among the members of that celebrated rifle corps, which was com- 
posed of such splendid material, and commanded by Daniel Morgan, 
was a man by the 
name of Elerson, 
who, in deeds of 
daring and intre- 
pidity, was almost a 




ELERSOX'S GREAT TWENTY-FIVE MILE RACE. 



match for J\itti-pI^Y' ^^ose frequent companion he w^as when on an 
expedition against theii* "^^^ual enemies, the tories, red-coats, and 
Indians. Quick of percept^*^^' I'^pi^l in his conclusions and his 



336 A RACE FOR LIFE. 

actions, light of foot, and brave as a lion, he was an enemy whom 
the Indians feared, and a friend whom all ranked as second only to 
the renowned Murphy himself. 

The corps to which these celebrated marksmen belonged was 
attached to the expedition of Generals Clinton and Sullivan against 
the Six Nations in 1779. Elerson was with Clinton when that 
officer halted at Otsego Lake, to await the coming of his superior, 
from the direction of Wyoming. While the army lay at this place, 
Elerson rambled off from the main body, in search of adventure 
and pulse for the dinner of the mess to which he belonged, Eegard- 
les^ of the danger and risk he ran, he wandered about until he had 
procured a quantity of the latter, sufficient for his purpose, when he 
prepared to return to camp. 

It seems that he had been discovered and tracked by a party of 
Indians, who determined upon his capture ; and as he was adjusting 
his burden to retrace his steps, he thought he heard a rustling of 
the leaves near him. Looking in the direction from whence came 
the sound, he discovered a band of six or eight Indians, who had 
stationed themselves between him and the camp, so as to cut off his 
retreat in that direction, and were m the act of springing upon him. 
Becoming immediately conscious of their object — for he might have 
been shot down with ease — he determined to foil them if in his 
power, for he knew full well the fate of a prisoner in their hands. 
Seizing his rifle, he dropped his bundle, and fled through the only 
avenue left open for his escape, followed by the whole pack, hooting 
and yellmg at his heels. As he started to run, half a dozen toma- 
hawks were hurled at him, and came whizzing and flying thron'^\i 
the air ; but fortunately only one reached its object^ -^^.^ti that cut 
the middle finger of his left hand, nearly ''^everino- it. AVith the 
agility of the hunted stag, he bounded o';cr an old brush-wood fence 



A RACE FOR LIFE. 33 1 

which stood in his path, and darted into the shades of the forest, 
followed by his no less swift and rapid pursuers. 

He was aware that the course he had taken was away from the 
camp — so also were his enemies ; and while they anticipated a speedy 
capture, he prepared himself for a mighty effort, trusting that an 
opportunity might offer to double and find his way back. Vain 
hope ! The Indians, aware that such would naturally be his aim, 
took care to prevent it by spreading themselves somewhat in the 
form of a crescent, to prevent the consummation of such an end ; but 
in so doing, they nearly lost sight of their prey. Fearful lest he 
might escape, they discharged their rifles at him, hoping to wound 
or kill him — but with no effect. The brave fellow tried every nerve 
to outstrip, and every stratagem and device, to mislead and mis- 
direct the Indians ; but they w^ere too cunning to be deceived, and 
pursued him with the ardor and determination of blood-hounds. 

Four long hours the chase continued thus, until overtasked nature 
threatened to give way, and yield hira to the tomahawks and scalp- 
ing-kmves of his pursuers. Like some powerful engine, his heart 
was forcing the blood through his distended and throbbing veins, 
which threatened to burst with the mighty efforts of the man. His 
breath came short and rapid, and betokened a speedy termination 
to the race, unless a breathing-spell was afforded him. An oppor- 
tunity at last was offered, when, having, as he thought, outstripped 
his pursuers for a moment, he halted in a little lonely dell to 
recover his waning strength, and regain his almost exhausted 
breath. His hope was destined to disappointment, however, for the 
circle closed in upon him, and the bust of an Indian presented 
itself at a hight opening in front. He raised his rifle to fire, and in 
the same moment a shot from his rear admonished him that danger 
was all around ; another took effect in his side, and warned him of 
22 



338 



A RACE FOR LIFE. 



the danger of delay. The Indian in front had disappeared, and he 
hastened forward, with the love of life and liberty still strong in his 
breast, although his powers of endurance had been sadly, fearfully 
tested. The wound in his side bled freely, although only a flesh- 
wonud, and therefore not dangerous nor painful. It served, how- 
ever, to track him by, and, conscious of the fact, he managed to 
tear a strip from his hunting-shirt and stanch the blood. 

On, on went pursuer and pursued — over hill and dale, brook, 
streamlet, and running stream — through briar and bramble, through 

field and wood — 
until the parched 
and burning tongue 
of the fugitive pro- 
truded from his 
mouth, swelled to 
such distention as 
almost to stop his 
breathing. Ex- 
hausted nature 
could do no more, 
and he threw him- 




THE LAST SHOT. 



self prostrate on the bank of a tiny brook, resolved to yield the con- 
test for the sake of a hearty draught of its clear, sparkling waters. 
He bathed his brow in the cool element, and drank deeply of its 
reviving virtues. Eaising his head, he discovered the foremost of 
the now scattered and equally exhausted enemy, crossing the brow 
of a ridge over which he had just passed. The instinct of life was 
awakened afresh in his bosom at the sight, and he started to his feet 
and raised his rifle to his shoulder ; but his failing strength would 
not allow of a certain aim, and an empty weupon might ensure his 



A RACE FOR LIFE. 339 

death. Another moment, and he would be at the mercy of his 
enemy, without hope or chance of hfe. 

Again he raised his trusty rifle, and, steadying its barrel against a 
sapling, he secured his aim, fired, and the Indian fell headlong in 
death. Before the echoes of the report had died away iu the neigh- 
boring hills, he beheld the remainder of the band of eager, hungry 
pursuers coming over the ridge, and he felt that his hold of life was 
short, and his minutes numbered. Hidden partially by the tree 
behind which he stood, they did not discover him, however ; and 
while they paused over the body of their fallen comrade, he made 
another attempt to fly from their pursuit. He staggered forward — 
fell — arose again — and exerting his failing powers to the utmost, he 
managed to reach a clump or thicket of young trees, overgrown 
with wild vines, into which he threw himself with the energy of 
desperation. Fortune favored him, and he discovered the rotten, 
mouldering trunk of a fallen tree, whose hollow butt, hidden and 
screened by the deep shadow of the surrounding foliage, offered an 
asylum from the impending death which seemed so near. 

The approaching steps of the savages quickened his movements, 
as he crawled head first into the recess caused by decay, which was 
barely large enough to admit his person. Here he lay within hear- 
ing of the efforts made to discover his hiding-place, until they died 
away in the distance. Conscious, however, that the Indians would 
search long and anxiously for him, he lay in this situation for two 
days and nights before he ventured to crawl from his hiding-place. 
When he did so he knew not which way to turn, but striking off at 
a venture, he soon emerged upon a clearing near Oobbleskill — a 
distance of twenty-five miles from his place of starting. 



340 



DESPERATE FIGHT WITH A PANTHER. 



DESPERATE FIGHT WITH A PANTHER— A KEET- 
UCKIAN'S STORY. 

I NEVER was down-hearted but once in my life, and that was on 
seeing the death of a faithful friend, who lost his life in trying to 
save mine. The fact is, I 
was one day making tracks 
homeward, after a long tramp 
through one of our forests — 
my rifle carelessly resting 
on my shoulder — when my 
favorite dog. Sport, who was 
trotting quietly ahead of me, 
suddenly stopped stock stall, 
gazed into a big oak tree, 
bristled up his back, and 
fetched a loud growl. I 
looked up, and saw upon a quivering limb, a half-grown panther, 
crouching down close, and in the very act of springing upon him. 
With a motion quicker than chain lightning I leveled my rifle, 
blazed away, and shot him clean through and through the heart. 

The varmint, with teeth all set and claws spread, pitched sprawling 
head foremost to the ground, as dead as Julius Caesar ! That was 
all fair enough ; but mark, afore I had hardly dropped my rifle, I 
found myself thrown down on my profile by the old she- panther, who 
that minute sprung from an opposite tree, and lit upon my shoulders, 
heavier than all creation ! I feel the print of her teeth and nails 
now ! My dog grew mighty loving — he jumped a-top and seized 
her by the neck ; so we all rolled and clawed, and a pretty con- 
siderable tight scratch we had of it. 




DEATH OF POOR SPORT. 



LA PAYETTE AND THE JERSEYMAN. 341 

I began to think my right arm was about chawed up ; when the 
varmint, finding the dog's teeth rather hurt her feelings, let me go 
altogether, and clenched him. Seeing at once that the dog was 
undermost, and that there was no two ways about a chance of a 
choke-off, or let up about her, I just out jack-knife, and with one 
slash, perhaps I didn't cut the panther's throat deep enough for her 
to breathe the rest of her life without nostrils. I did feel mighty 
savagerous, and big as she was, I laid hold of her hide by the back 
with an alligator-grip, and slung her against the nearest tree, hard 
enough to make every bone in her body flash fire. " Thar," says I, 
" you tarnal varmint, root and branch, you are what I call used 
up!" 

But I turned round to look for my dog, and — and — and tears 
gushed into my eyes, as I see the poor affectionate cretur — all of a 
gore of blood — half raised on his fore legs, and trying to drag his 
mangled body toward me; down he dropped — I run up to him, 
whistled loud, and gave him a friendly shake of the paws, (for I 
loved my dog.) But he was too far gone ; he had just strength 
enough to wag his tail feebly — fixed his closing eyes upon me wist- 
fully — then gave a gasp or two, and — all was over ! 



LA FAYETTE AND THE JERSEYMAN". 

Chakles Morgan was a shrewd private of the Jersey brigade, 
a good soldier, and had attracted the notice of the Marquis de la 
Fayette. In the course of the movements on James river, the 
marquis was anxious to procure exact information of the force 
under Cornwallis, and if possible, to penetrate his lordship's de- 
signs ; he considered Charles as a proper agent for the accomplish- 



342 



LA FAYETTE AND THE JERSEYMAN. 



ment of his purposes, and proposed to him to enter the British camp 
in the character of a deserter, but in reality as a spy. Charles 
nndertook the perilous enterprise, merely stipulating that, if he were, 
detected, the marquis should cause it to be inserted in the Jersey 
newspapers, that he was acting under the orders of his commanding 
ofiicer. 

The pretended deserter entered the British lines and was con- 
ducted into the presence of Cornwallis. On being questioned by 
that nobleman, concerning his motives 
for desertion, he replied "that he had ""^-^ 
been with the American army from 
the beginning of the war, 
and that while under Gen- 
eral Washington, he was 
satisfied ; but now that they 
had put him under a French- 
man, he did not like it, and 
therefore had deserted." 
Charles was received with- 
out suspicion, was punc- 
tual in discharging his duty as a soldier, and carefully observed 
every thing that passed. One day while on duty with his comrades, 
Cornwallis, who was in close conversation with some of his officers, 
called him and asked, "How long will it take the marquis to cross 
James river ?" 

" Three hours, my lord," was the answer. 

" Three hours !" exclaimed his lordship, " will it not take three 




THE JERSEYMAN AND THE DESERTERS. 



" No, my lord," said Charles ; " the marquis has so many boats, 
each boat will carry so many men ; and if your lordship will take the 



LA FAYETTE AND THE JERSEYMAN. 343 

trouble of calculating, you will find he can cross in three hours." 
Turning to his officers, the earl said, in the hearing of the American, 
" the scheme will not do." 

Charles was now resolved to abandon his new friends : and for 
that purpose plied his comrades with grog, till they were all in high 
spirits with the liquor. He then began to complain of the wants 
in the British camp, extolled the plentiful provision enjoyed by the 
Americans, and concluded by proposing to them to desert : they 
agreed to accompany him, and left it to him to manage the senti- 
nels. To the first he offered, in a very friendly manner, a draught 
©f rum from his canteen ; but, while the soldier was drinking, 
Charles seized his arms, and then proposed to him to desert with 
them, which he did through necessity. The second sentinel was 
served in the same way ; and Charles hastened to the American 
camp at the head of seven British deserters. On presenting him- 
self before his employer, the marquis exclaimed " Ah, Charles ! have 
you got back ?" 

*'Yes sir," was the answer, "and have brought seven more with 
me." The marquis offered him money, but he declined accepting it, 
and only desired to have his gun again : the marquis then proposed 
to raise him to the rank of a corporal or sergeant, but Charles' 
reply was, " I will not have any promotion ; I have abilities for a 
common soldier, and have a good character ; should I be promoted, 
my abilities may not answer, and I may lose my character." He, 
however, generously requested for his fellow-soldiers, who were not 
so well supplied with stockings, shoes, and clothing, as himself, the 
marquis' interference to procure a supply of their wants. 



344 



THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS. 



THRILLING ADVENTURE OP TWO SCOUTS. 

As early as the year 1790, the block house and stockade, above 
the mouth of the Hockhocking river, was a frontier post for the 
hardy pioneers of 
that portion of our 
state from the 
Hockhocking to the 
Sciota, and from 
the Ohio river to 
our northern lakes. 
Then nature v7ore 
her undisturbed 
livery of dark and 
thick forests, inter- 
spersed with green 
and flowery prai- / 
ries. Then the axe of the wood- 
man had not been heard in the 
wilderness, nor the plough of the 
husbandman marred the beauty 
of the green prairies. Among the i'^ 
many rich and luxuriant valleys, 
that of the Hockhocking was pre-eminent for nature's richest gifts — 
and the portion of it whereon Lancaster now stands, was marked as 
the most luxuriant and picturesque, and became the seat of an Indian 
village, at a period so early, that the " memory of man runneth not 
parallel thereto." 

On the green sward of the prairie was held many a rude gambol 




WATCHING THE ENEMY. 



THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS. 345 

of the Indians ; and here too, was many an assemblage of the warriors 
of one of tho most powerful tribes, taking counsel for a " war path" 
upon some weak or defenceless frontier post. 

Upon one of these luar-stirring occasions, intelligence reached the 
little garrison above the mouth of the Hockhocking, that the 
Indians were gathering in force somewhere up the valley, for the 
purpose of striking a terrible blow on one of the few and scattered 
defences of the whites, A council was held by the garrison, and 
scouts were sent up the Hockhocking, in order to ascertain the 
strength of the foe, and the probable point of attack. 

In the month of October, and on one of the balmiest days of our 
Indian summer, two men could have been seen emerging out of the 
thick plum and hazel bushes skirting the prairie, and stealthily 
climbing the eastern declivity of that most remarkable promontory, 
now known as Mount Pleasant, whose western summit gives a com- 
manding view to the eye of what is doing on the prairie. This 
eminence was gained by our two adventurous and hardy scouts, and 
from this point they carefully observed the movements taking place 
on the prairie. 

Every day brought an accession of warriors to those already as- 
sembled, and every day the scouts witnessed from their eyrie, the 
horse-racing, leaping, running, and throwing the deadly tomahawk 
by the warriors. The old sachems looking on with indifference — 
the squaws, for the most part, engaged in the useful drudgeries, and 
the papooses manifesting all the noisy and wayward joy of child- 
hood. The arrival of any new party of warriors was hailed by the 
terrible ivar ivhoop, which striking the mural face of Mount 
Pleasant, was driven back into the various indentations of the 
surrounding hills, producing reverberation on reverberation, and 
echo on echo, till it seemed as if ten thousand fiends were gathered 



346 THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS. 

in their orgies. Such yells might well strike terror into the bosoms 
of those unaccustomed to them. 

To our scouts these were but martial music strains which waked 
their watchfulness, and strung their iron frames. From their early 
youth had they been on the frontier, and therefore well practiced in 
all the subtlety, craft and cunning, as well as knowing the ferocity 
and bloodthirsty perseverance of the savage. They were therefore 
not likely to be circumvented by the cunning of their foes ; and 
without a desperate struggle, would not fall victims to the scalping- 
knife. 

On several occasions, small parties of warriors left the prairie and 
ascended the mount ; at which times our scouts would hide m the 
fissures of the rocks, or lying by the side of some long prostrate 
tree, cover themselves with the sear and yellow leaf, and again leave 
their hiding places when their uninvited visitors had disappeared. 
For food they depended on jerked venison, and cold corn bread, 
with which their knapsacks had been well stored. Fire they dared 
not kindle, and the report of one of their rifles would bring upon 
them the entire force of the Indians. For drink they depended on 
some rain water, which stood in excavations of the rocks, but in a 
few days this store was exhausted, and M'Clelland and White must 
•abandon their enterprise or find a new supply. 

To accomplish this most hazardous affair, M'Clelland, being the 
elder, resolved to make the attempt. With his trusty rifle in his 
grasp, and two canteens strung across his shoulders, he cautiously 
descended to the prairie, and skirting the hills on the north as much 
as possible within the hazel thickets, he struck a course for the 
Hockhocking river. He reached its margin, and turning an abrupt 
point of a hill, he found a beautiful fountain of limpid water, now 
known as the Cold Spring, within a few feet of the river. He filled 
his canteens and returned in safety to his watchful companion. 



THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS. 



34t 



It was now determined to have a fresh supply of water every day, 
and this duty was to be performed alternately. On one of these 
occasions, after White had filled his canteens, he sat a few moments, 
watching the limpid element, as it came gurgling out of the bosom 
of the earth — the light sound of footsteps caught his practised ear, 
and upon turning round, he saw two ri^'^rW^ 

squaws within a few feet of him ; these '^^^^P^- 
upon turning the jet of the hill had ^- 
thus suddenly come upon him. The 
elder squaw gave one of those far- 
reaching whoops peculiar to 
the Indians. ' 

White at once compre- 
hended his perilous situa- 
tion, — for if the alarm should 
reach the camp, he and his 
companion must inevitably 
perish. Self-preservation impelled him to inflict a noiseless death 
upon the squaws, and in such a manner as to leave no trace behind. 
Ever rapid m thought, and prompt in action, he sprang upon his 
victims with the rapidity and power of a panther, and grasping the 
throat of each, with one bound he sprang into the Hockhocking, 
and rapidly thrust the head of the elder woman under water, and 
making strong efforts to submerge the younger, who, however, pow- 
erfully resisted. 

During the short struggle, the younger female addressed him in 
his own language, though almost in inarticulate sounds. 

Keleasing his hold, she informed him, that, ten years before, she 
had been made a prisoner, on Grave Creek fiats, and that the 
Indians, in her presence, butchered her mother and two sisters ; and 




THE SCOUT AND THE SQUAWS 



348 THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS. 

that an only remaining brother had been captured with her, -who 
succeeded on the second night in making his escape ; but what had 
become of him she knew not. During the narrative, White, unob- 
served by the girl, had let go his grasp on the elder squaw, whose 
body soon floated where it would not, probably, soon be found. 
He now directed the girl hastily to follow him, and with his usual 
energy and speed, pushed for the mount. 

They had scarcely gone two hundred yards from the spring, be- 
fore the alarm cry was heard some quarter of a mile down the 
stream. It was supposed that some warriors returning from a hunt, 
struck the Hockhocking just as the body of the drowned squaw 
floated past. White and the girl succeeded in reaching the Mount, 
where M'Clelland had been no indifferent spectator to the sudden 
commotion among the Indians, as the prairie parties were seen to 
strike off in every direction, and before White and the girl had 
arrived, a party of some twenty warriors had already gamed the 
eastern acclivity of the Mount, and were cautiously ascending, 
carefully keeping under cover. 

Soon the two scouts saw the swarthy faces of the foe, as tlioy 
glided from tree to tree, and rock to rock, until the whole base of 
the Mount was surrounded, and all hopes of escape cut off. 

In this peril nothing was left, other than to sell their lives as 
dearly as they could ; this they resolved to do, and advised the girl 
to escape to the Indians, and tell them she had been made a captive 
to the scouts. 

She said, " No ! death, and that in the presence of my people, is 
to me a thousand times sweeter than captivity — furnish me with a 
rifle, and I will show you that I can fight as well as die. This spot 
I leave not ! here my bones shall lie bleaching with yours ! and 
should either of us escape, you wull carry the tidings of my death to 
my remaining relatives." 



THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS. 



349 



Remonstrance proved fruitless ; the two scouts matured their 
plans for a vigorous defence — opposing craft to craft, expedient to 
expedient, and an unerring fire of the deadly rifle. 

The attack commenced in front, where, from the narrow backbone 
of the Mount, the savages had to advance in single file, but where 
they could avail themselves of the rocks and trees. In advancing 
the warrior must be momen- 
tarily exposed, and two bare 
inches of his swarthy form 
was target enough for the | 
unerring rifle of the scouts. 
After bravely maintaining the 
fight in front, and keeping 
the enemy in check, they 
discovered a new danger 
threatening them. The wary foe now made 
every preparation to attack them in flank, 
which could be most successfully and fatally 
done by reaching an insulated rock lying in one of the ravines on 
the southern hill side. This rock once gained by the Indians, they 
could bring the scouts under point blank shot of the rifle ; and with- 
out the possibility of escape. 

Our brave scouts saw the hopelessness of their situation, which 
nothing could avert but brave companions and an unerring shot — 
them they had not. But the brava never despair. With this cer- 
tain fate resting upon them, they had continued as calm, and as 
calculating, and as unwearied as the strongest desire of vengeance on 
a treacherous foe could produce. Soon M'Clelland saw a tall and 
swarthy figure preparing to spring from a cover so near the fatal 
rock, that a single bound must reach it, and all hope be destroyed. 




THE MYSTERIOUS SHOT. 



350 THRILLING ADVENTURE OP TWO SCOUTS. 

He felt that all dependea on one advantageous shot, although but 
one inch of the warrior's body was exposed, and that at a distance 
of one hundred yards — he resolved to risk all — coolly he raised his 
rifle to his eye, carefully shading the sight with his hand, he drew a 
bead so sure, that he felt conscious it would do — he touched the hair 
trigger with his finger — the hammer came down, but in place of 
striking fire it crushed his flint into a hundred fragments ! Although 
he felt that the savage must reach the fatal rock before he could 
adjust another flint, he proceeded to the task with the utmost com- 
posure, casting many a furtive glance toward the fearful point. 

Suddenly he saw the warrior stretching every muscle for the 
leap — and with the agility of a deer he made the spring — instead of 
reachhig the rock, he sprung ten feet in the air, and giving one ter- 
rific yell he fell upon the earth, and his dark corpse rolled fifty feet 
down the hill. He had evidently received a death shot from some 
unknown hand. A hundred voices from below re-echoed the terri- 
ble shout, and it was evident that they had lost a favorite warrior, 
as well as been foiled for a time in their most important movement. 

A very few moments proved that the advantage so mysteriously 
gained would be of short duration ; for already the scouts caught a 
glimpse of a swarthy warrior, cautiously advancing toward the 
cover so recently occupied by a fellow companion. Now, too, the 
attack in front was resumed with increased fury, so as to require 
the incessant fire of both scouts, to prevent the Indians from gaining 
the eminence — and in a short time M'Clelland saw the wary warrior 
behind the cover, preparing for a leap to gain the fearful rock — the 
leap was made and the warrior turning a somerset, his corpse rolled 
down toward his companion ; again a mysterious agent had inter- 
posed in their behalf 

This second sacrifice cast dismay into the ranks of the assailants ; 



THRlLTJNn AhVKNTlTRE OP TWO SCOUTS. 



351 



and just as the sun was disappearino- behind the western hills, the 
foe withdrew a short distance, for the purpose of devising new 
modes of attack. The respite came most seasonably to the scouts, 
who had bravely kept their position, and boldly maintained the un- 
equal fight from the middle of the day. 

Now, for the first time was the girl missing, and the scouts sup- 
posed that through terror she had escaped to her former captors, or 
that she had been killed during the fight. 
They were not long left to doubt, for in a few 
moments the girl was seen 
emerging from behind a rock 
and coming to them with a 
rifle in her hand. During 
the heat of the fight she saw 
a warrior fall, who had ad- 
vanced some fifty yards be- 
fore the main body in front. 
She at once resolved to pos- 
sess herself of his rifle, and 
crouching in undergrowth she crept to the spot, and succeeded in 
her enterprise, being all the time exposed to the cross fire of the 
defenders and assailants — her practised eye had early noticed the 
fatal rock, and hers was the mysterious hand by which the two 
warriors had fallen — the last being the most wary, untiring and 
blood-thirsty brave of the Shawanese tribe. He it was, who ten 
years previous had scalped the family of the girl, and been her 
captor. 

In the west, dark clouds were now gathering, and in an hour the 
whole heavens were shrouded in them ; this darkness greatly embar- 
rassed the scouts in their contemplated night retreat, for they might 




THE MYSTERY EXPLAINED AND THE GIRL'3 

REVENGE 



352 THRILLING ADVENTURE OF TWO SCOUTS. 

readily lose their way, or accidentally fall on the enemy — this being 
Highly 2^robable, it not inevitable. An hour's consultation decided 
their plans, and it was agreed that the girl, from her intimate know- 
ledge of their localities, should lead the advance a few steps. 

Another advantage might be gained by this arrangement, for in 
case they should fall in with some outposts, the girl's knowledge ot 
the Indian tongue would perhaps enable her to deceive the sentinel ; 
and so the sequel proved, for scarcely had they descended one hun- 
dred feet, when a low " whist" frx)m the girl, warned them of present 
danger. 

The scouts sunk silently to the earth, where by previous agree- 
ment, they were to remain till another signal was given them by the 
girl,— whose absence for more than a quarter of an hour now began 
to excite the most serious apprehensions. At length she again ap- 
peared, and told them that she had succeeded in removing two sen- 
tinels who were directly in their route to a point some hundred feet 
distant. The descent was noiselessly resumed — the level gained, 
and the scouts followed their intrepid pioneer for half a mile in the 
most profound silence, when the barking of a small dog, within a 
few feet, apprised them of a new danger. The almost simultaneous 
click of the scouts' rifles, was heard by the girl, who rapidly ap- 
proached them and stated that they were now in the midst of the 
Indian wigwams, and their lives depended on the most profound 
silence, and implicitly following her footsteps. A moment after- 
ward, the girl was accosted by a squaw from an openmg in a 
wigwam. She replied in the Indian language, and without stopping 
pressed forward. 

In a short time she stopped and assured the scouts that the 
village was cleared, and that they were now in safety. She knew 
that every pass leading out of the prairie was safely guarded by the 
Ipdians, and at once resolved to adopt the bold adventure of passing 



THE BRAVO OF TEXAS 



353 



through the very centre of their village as the least hazardous. 
The result proved the correctness of her judgment. 

They now kept a course for the Ohio, being guided by the Hock 
hocking river — and after three days' march and sufiering, the party 
arrived at the block-house in safety. Their escape from the 
Indians, prevented the contemplated attack : and the rescued girl 
proved to be the sister of the intrepid Neil Washburn, celebrated iE 
Indian history as the renowned scout to Captain Kenton's bloody 
Kentuckians. 



THE BEAVO OP TEXAS. 

*'Lem M'Guiee" was known throughout Texas as a thorough- 
paced villam and black-leg. Accustomed from infancy to the most 




THE BRAVO S ADVENTURE IN A HOCoTON BAR-ROOM. 

infamous companions, as he mcreased in years so did he grow old in 
crime, and at the age of twenty was deemed, by his companions, 
worthy of the front rank in their columns. 
23 



354 THE BRAYO OF TEXAS. 

One of the first acts that made his name well-known, was his 
participation — while yet a mere child — in an affray in which a 
friend and protector of his was shot — and most deservedly — by a 
tavern-keeper, upon whom he had made a murderous attack. 

M'Guire fought like a young tiger — as he was — clinging to the 
landlord with his hands and teeth, and though crying with rage and 
grief at the death of his patron, seemed perfectly regardless of the 
danger to himself. 

I have no intention of writing the history of his career, but shall 
merely note an incident or two to give our readers an idea of the 
man 

He had been brought up by a man of his own kind, napied John- 
son, who furnished him with a home — such as it was — until by his 
practices the latter had become possessed of sufficient property to 
awaken M'Guire's cupidity, and a determination to become pos- 
sessed of it by foul means, as he could not by fair ones. 

He accordingly laid his plans, and caused Johnson to become 
involved in a quarrel, m which his life was taken, at the instigation 
of the serpent he had nourished, who immediately after married his 
widow — a woman twice his age — and thus accomplished his designs. 

A few months before his death, he paid a very characteristic visit 
to Houston, where he succeeded, as usual, in bringing himself into 
speedy notice. Entering one of the bar-rooms of the place in a state 
of serai-intoxication, and taking offence at a simple German who 
presided over the bottles, and whose imperfect knowledge of the 
language prevented him from understanding correctly what was 
required, M'Guire struck him in the face with a heavy cut-glass 
decanter, breaking it in the act, and severely injuring the man. 

Among the crowd which collected, M'Guire espied a judge of one 
of the courts, and turning upon him, immediately knocked hira 



THE BRAVO OF TEXAS. 355 

down ; then crossing the street where stood the mayor, " spectator 
of the fight" — as he supposed at a safe distance — the gentleman 
prostrated him also at a blow. 

He then retreated, walking up the main street of the town in 
triumph, and no more was seen of him — although warrants were 
issued for his apprehension — until the second day ; when he rode 
down the street, stopped his horse at the scene of his late disturb- 
ance, and calling out the proprietor, told him he had traveled some 
distance out of his way to bid him good bye ; and then rode out of 
town. 

At this time he resided not far from the town of Crocket, and 
soon after his return from his Houston exploit, he determined, for 
reasons of his own, — whether from enmity, to remove a troublesome 
witness, or a partner in crime, I know not, — to have one of his 
neighbors " put out of the way." 

Not being willing to take the trouble himself, he hired another, a 
journeyman at the trade of blood, to do the business for him. For 
some time the bravo deferre'^' ^e murder, until at length M'Guire 
imagined that he had turr and betrayed his designs to his 

enemy; which belief Vw,.. ^....^^.^^^^^x ^j the ultimate refusal of the 
man to have any thing to do with it. 

So far, M'Guire had only gained the necessity of removing two 
persons in the place of one ; and, perhaps agreeing with Dr. Frank- 
lin's adage, "If you wish a thing done, go; if you do not, send;" 
determined this time to do his own work. 

To murder his accomplice, he had a double motive, fear and re- 
venge. Having secured the aid of one or more persons upon whom 
he could depend, he rode over to the house of the supposed traitor, 
and callingliim out into the yard, in front of the house, in full sight 
of his wife and family, shot him down like a dog ; then the party 



356 



THE BRAVO OF TEXAS. 



turned their horses toward the house of the one whom he had marked 
before for his victim, and killed him in precisely the same manner. 

All this happened in broad daylight, nor did his audacity cease 
here, but knowing that a magistrate lived near by, the party again 
mounted and rode to his plantation. 

M'Guire was probably deceived in the man, whom he must either 
have supposed to have been a reckless being like himself, or one 
who might be influenced by fear or money, to subserve his ends. 

The magistrate was very coolly informed that they came to be 
tried, that he must go through some form, no matter what, and give 
them a certificate of acquittal, which, although the magistrate's 
court was only a preliminary one, they imagined, combined with the 
known and certain danger of meddling with them, would be sufficient 
to prevent any further inquiry. 

As the reader may well imagine, the magistrate, who was almost 
alone in the house, was eji:tremely alarmed, but had sufficient presence 

of mind to conceal his feelings, 
and put the villains off, upon the 
plea that it was necessary to 
have some other persons pre- 
sent, and also to prepare cer- 
tain papers, which could not be 
done at a moment's notice. It 
was Saturday, and he promised 
them, that if they returned on 




DOOM OF THE BRAVO. 



Monday morning, he would have every thing fixed for them — which 
he certainly did. 

On Monday, M'Guire appeared, with a reinforcement, making in 
all five or six, and found the magistrate sitting at the further end 
of the hall. For the information of those who are not skilled in the 



JOHN DEAN AND THE INDIANS. 35t 

houses of a new county, I would say, that a double log-cabin — such 
an one as the magistrate's — consists, usually, of two large rooms, 
separated by a wide hall, which, in pleasant weather, serves the 
family for a dining and sitting-room, but being generally open at 
both ends, is not used in inclement days. 

From all appearances, they found that the trial was to be an affair 
of more detail than they admired, and M'Guire, considering himself 
now to be in a condition to dictate his own terms, insolently de- 
manded if the Justice intended to do as he was ordered — adding, 
that if he did not, and that immediately, he would cut him to pieces 
with his knife. The Justice replied, that he intended to proceed 
according to law, and in no other way ; but hardly had he spofeen, 
when M'Guire, knife in hand, followed by his friends, rushed upon 
him. 

At this critical moment, the side-doors were dashed open, and on 
either side a volley from six rifles was poured upon them. M'Guire 
and two others fell dead, the rest, more or less injured, were seized 
and bound with cords. 

It was like a " coup de th^dtre," except that it exceeded one, a? 
reality ever does fiction. I am sure that no melodramist ever in- 
vented or got up a more perfect or successful affair ; and who may 
Bay that it was not pure, even-handed justice ? 



JOHN" DEAN AND THE INDIANS. 

About the year 1780, an Indian had been murdered in Westmore- 
land county. New York, by some unknown white man. The chiefs 
met in council at Oneida, to determine what was to be done. One 
of the early settlers in the county was a Mr. John Dean, who, feeling 



358 



JOHN DEAN AND THE INDIANS. 



curious, perhaps alarmed, at the proceedings around him, continued, 
through the friendship of an Indian, to obtain knowledge of their 
consultations. It by no means satisfied him ; since from the office 
he held, (judge of county courts,) and his high standing among the 
white men, the chiefs urged that he was the proper one to make 
atonement. But he had been adopted by them as a son, and many 
of the warriors argued that this circumstance would nullify the 
virtue of the sacrifice. 

For several days the matter was debated without being decided. 
His friendly informant apprised him of all that was done, and he 

continued to hope for the best. 
An effort to escape would have 
exposed him, with his wife and 
children, to certain 
destruction. H e 
adopted the pre- 
caution of conceal- 
ing from his family 
all knowledge of 
his situation, and 
as the council re- 
mained in session 
his hopes of escape brightened. They were vain. 

One night after retiring to rest, he heard the war-whoop, and 
then for the first time intimated to his wife, that he feared a 
party was approaching to take his life. After exhorting her to 
remain quiet with the children, he went to an adjoining chamber, 
admitted the Indians and seated them in the outer room. They 
numbered eighteen, and were the principal men of the tribe. 
After a short interval, the senior chief arose and informed the 




THE SQUAWS ly COUNCIL. 



JOHN DEAN AND THE INDIANS. 359 

judge that they had come to sacrifice him for their dead brother, 
and that he must prepare to die. To this disagreeable piece of in- 
formation he replied at length, affirming that as he was an adopted son 
of the tribe, it would be wrong to require his blood for the wrong 
committed by a wicked white man, that he was not ready to die, 
and, that he could not leave his wife and children unprovided for. 
The council listened with profotPnd gravity and attention, and after 
he had finished, one of the chiefs replied. The debate continued a 
long while, but evidently little to the judge's favor. 

When about resigning himself to his doom, the noise of footsteps 
was heard, and suddenly a squaw entered. She was wife to the 
senior chief and the foster parent of the unfortunate white man. 
Though her entrance into a solemn council was entirely repugnant 
to all Indian notions of propriety, yet she was permitted to take her 
place in silence. Immediately after, another squaw entered, and 
she was as soon followed by another. 

Each of the three stood closely wrapped in a blanket, but said 
nothing. After a long pause, the presiding warrior bade them be 
gone. The wife replied that the council must change its determina- 
tion, and leave her adopted son, the good white man, alone. The 
command was repeated. Suddenly each of the women, throwing 
aside her blanket, brandished a knife, and declared that if the 
sentence was executed, she would plunge it into her bosom. 

So strange a scene amazed even Indians ; they regarded the 
unheard-of procedure of a woman's interfering with a national coun- 
cil as an interposition of the Great Spirit. The will of their deity 
was implicitly obeyed, the decree reversed on the spot, and the 
judge dismissed with honor. 



360 



THE murderer's ORDEAL. 



THE MUKDSIIER»S ORDEAL-A CALIFORNIAIT'S STORY. 

I WAS always fond of the science of physiognomy. From ray 
youth up I was noted for my proclivity for reading the character of 




I WAS STARTLED FROM SLEEP, BY CRIES OF " MURPER ! MUKDEU ! HELP! HELP!" 

a man from his face ; and I finally became such an adept in the art 
that I could occasionally guess the very thoughts of the individual 
whose countenance I was studying. 

Soon after the gold fever broke out, I went to California ; and 
there, I must confess, among what else there was to interest me, I 
had a grand opportunity of exercising my skill upon all sorts of 
faces, seen under all sorts of circumstances, from the highest 
triumph of success to the deepest despair of failure. I first tried 
my luck at digging gold myself, but soon tired of that, and believing 
I could make money faster and with less labor, I opened a kind of 
grocery aad provision store, and went regularly into the business of 



THE MURDERER'S ORDEAL. 361 

trade, buying most of my articles at Sacramento, getting them 
hauled to my quarters, and disposing of them at a fair advance to 
the miners and others. 

My store, as I dignified my place of trade, consisted of a rude 
skeleton of poles, with a sufficiency of cheap muslin drawn over 
them and pinned down to the earth, and was stocked only with the 
most saleable articles, of which flour, pork, and whiskey found the 
most ready market, especially whiskey. In the dry season it was 
very dusty, and every body seemed to be dry with a thirst which 
mere water could not quench. If a man was successful, he wanted 
whiskey to bring his body up to the altitude of his spirits ; if unsuc- 
cessful, he wanted whiskey to bring his spirits up to the altitude of 
his body ; if it chanced to be a little cool, he wanted a little whiskey 
to warm him ; if it was very hot, he wanted whiskey to cool him ; he 
needed whiskey in the morning to make him bright and active ; he 
needed whiskey at night to rest him and make him sleep well ; he 
wanted it when he bought, and when he sold, when he stood up, and 
when he sat down ; in short, whiskey was the great regulator of all 
human feelings — the genuine elixir vitoe, — and consequently I had an 
immense business in whiskey. 

Now this, though somewhat irrelevant, brings me to my story. 

My store being the head-quarters of that locality for whiskey and 
provisions, I was brought in contact with nearly every specimen of 
the genus homo that ventured into that region ; and such another 
conglomeration of white, black and red — such another mixture of 
gentlemen, laborers, mountaineers, gamblers, thieves, and assas- 
sins — it would be hard to find outside the limits of California. Of 
course I had a chance to study all sorts of faces to my heart's con- 
tent ; but having, as I have said, become an adept in the art, an 
ordinary countenance, or a man governed by ordinary passions, 



262 



THE MURDERER'S ORDExVL. 



whether brutish or gentle, did not interest me. I wanted to get 
hold of what is termed a character, or one whose external w^ould 
give no indication of his internal to any but a connoisseur — or one 
that would really puzzle you to tell what to think of him. 

Among the many, such an one I at length found. At first I did 
not notice him. At a casual glance there was nothing to distin- 
guish him from the herd. He came in quietly, unobtrusively, pur- 
chased a quantity of flour, pork, and tea, paid for it in gold dust, 
and went out about his business. He 
repeated his visits, at different intervals, ^ 
perhaps some half-a-dozen times, before 
he attracted my attention to 
any thing peculiar in his ap- 
pearance, and then I should jjMjj 
have been at a loss to say ™i 
what I saw more in him at 
last than at first. 

He was apparently about 
twenty-five years of age, of 
medium height and slender 
figure, of a dark complexion^ 
regular features, with dark 
straight hair, dark eyes, and 
a beard that covered the lower part of his face — in all of which there 
was nothing remarkable — nothing striking. He was quiet, not 
talkative — had nothing to say, except about the business he came 
on — got what he wanted when I was disengaged, paid for what he 
got like a gentleman, and generally retired with an ordinary " Good 
day, sir," or some similar civility. And yet, as I have said, he began 
to attract my attention at last, and I began to wonder why. Was 




"this simple egg." said I, "so FAIR TO VIEW, 
CONTAINS THE MURDEKER'S SECRET." 



THE murderer's ORDEAL. 363 

it because he was so quiet, reserved and gentlemanly, and did not 
purchase whiskey like the resi, and occasionally get excited and 
boisterous? Or was it because there was something about him I 
could not readily fathom ? At all events, he had begun to interest 
me in some way ; and the very fact, perhaps, that I could not tell 
iiow or why, led into a closer scrutiny, a deeper study of the man. 

After this I prolonged his visits as long as I could without causing 
him to suspect I did so intentionally. The things that he wanted I 
generally had some trouble in getting, and filled up the interval by 
remarks about the weather, the country, the mines, the success of 
some and the failure of others — in a word, any thing I could think 
of to induce conversation, watching him furtively all the while. He 
answered easily and readily, and yet with that peculiar kind of re- 
serve that was not suggestive, or tending toward familiarity. His 
replies, however, evinced a man of mind and education, and I began 
to give him credit for being a thinker — perhaps a practical and sel- 
fish dreamer, if I may use a paradoxical term that best expresses my 
idea. 

One day, I scarcely know how, I touched upon the general super- 
stitions of mankind, and to my surprise, I saw that at last he was 
interested. His eye changed expression, and brightened, and 
emitted a strange and peculiar gleam ; and my attention being thus 
directed to his eye, I now bethought me that I had never seen one 
exactly like it — one capable of being so apparently open down to 
the soul, while concealing so much. It was off its guard now — the 
door was really open down to the soul of the man — and I looked in 
at that door, that opening, and saw that the soul of that man ivas a 
dark one. A nameless fear came over me — a strange thrill passed 
through me like an electric shock — I felt an internal shudder of 
dread. No wonder I had not been able to read him before ; the 
man had been wearing an impenetrable mask. 



364 THE murderer's ordeal, 

I now had the key to the mystery, and to him, and I used it. He 
was interested in superstitions — he was superstitious himself. Why? 
Good men may be superstitious — bad men always are, because they 
carry a hell of wild fancies within them. Thus it was with this man, 
as I could see by his eye, and I made his fancies work upon him. I 
told him stories of sorcery, witchcraft and magic — of ghosts, of 
hobgoblins, and devils — till he became pale with fear, breathed with 
compressed lips, and trembled in spite of his great nerve and will. 

If good men, as I have said, are sometimes superstitious, why, 
you ask, did I think this man bad for being superstitious also? 
First, I answer, because T had accidentally thrown him off his guard 
and had read his soul ; and secondly, because he was not naturally 
nervous and credulous. Fear only had made him so ; and in one 
of his iron nature, fear could only arise from his self-convicted 
knowledge of a past wicked deed. The man was even then a 
criminal. 

But let me hasten to the denouement. 

It chanced that no other person was present when this conversa- 
tion occurred about the superstitious fancies of men, and as soon as 
we were interrupted by the entrance of another customer, my dark 
visitor left somewhat abruptly. After that he did not come as often 
as before, and never seemed as much at ease, and never renewed the 
conversation that had so agitated him, and never, in fact, entered into 
any other that he could possibly avoid. I kept my thoughts to my- 
self, but made some casual inquiries about him, and learned that he 
had been so fortunate as to secure a capital " lead," from which, 
with his partner, another young man, he was taking out gold in such 
quantities as promised to enrich both, and that both had the good 
will and esteem of all who knew them. 

One dark night, about three or four weeks after this, I was 
startled from my sleep, by wild, prolonged shouts, and cries of— 



THE murderer's ORDEAL. 



365 



" Murder ! murder ! help ! help !" 

I jumped up, seized my revolvers, and darted out into the open 
air. The cries and screams still continued, coming from a point on 
the bend of the river about a hundred rods below. In a minute I 
was joined by five others, all well armed, and together we ran, as 
fast as we could, to the place from whence the sound proceeded. — 
When we arrived there, at least thirty men were collected in and 
about the tent of the dark man I have been describing, and he him- 
self it was who had given the alarm. His partner and companion 
had been murdered and robbed, he himself had been slightly cut 
across the face, and gashed 
on the left arm, and was all 
excitement, lamenting h i s 
dearest friend, and vowing 
vengeance against the assas- 
sin. It was sometime before 
we could get at the particu- 
lars, and then we learned 
that both had been sleeping 
side by side, when an un- 
known robber had crawled 
under the canvass, stabbed 
one to the heart, and taken 
a large bag of gold from a despairing shriek came from the lips of 

THE GUILTY WRETCH. 

under his head. With this 

he was escaping, when the present narrator awoke and seized him, 
and received the wounds which had compelled him to relinquish his 
hold. Lights were brought, and there, sure enough, was the bloody 
confirmation of all that had been related. 
I shall make no attempt to portray the intense excitement ; the 




366 



THE murderer's ORDEAL. 



wild rage and consternation which this daring murder occasioned. 
Every man felt that, if the assassin escaped without his just punish- 
ment, there would no longer be security for any one in our hitherto 
quiet and peaceful valley ; and solemn oaths were taken to hang the 
wretch, if found, on the nearest tree. A large reward was offered 
for his detection, and every gambler that had ever been seen about 
there, was more or less suspected, and I believe, that, had any man 
been arrested on the following day, he would have been hung first, 
and tried afterward. I said less than any, for I had my own suspi- 
cions, and I contrived my plot in secret, and made a confidant of no 
one. 

The murdered young man was as decently buried as surrounding 
circumstances would permit, and his companion, my superstitious 

friend, grew more 
moody with grief, 
refused to work his 
" lead" any more, 
and proposed sell- 
ing off altogether. 
I think he would 
have gone at once, 
__^_ _ only that I told 

THERE WAS A HOWL OF FURY, AND A RUSH LIKE WOLVES him it WOUld UOt 
UPON THEIR PREY. 

look well to leave 
without an effort to discover the murderer, as some people might be 
malicious enough to say he knew something of the matter, and so 
get him into trouble. He turned very pale, and declared he would 
stay a year, if he thought by that means he could discover the 
assassin of his dear friend. 

On the second afternoon following the tragedy, almost every in- 




THE murderer's ORDEAL. 36T 

dividual in tne vicinity, the friend of the murdered man among the 
rest, assembled at my store at my request. I had told them I had 
something to communicate concerning the foul deed, and I thought 
it not unlikely I would give them some clue to the assassin. 

When all had collected and arranged themselves as I nad 
directed, in a semicircle before my door — eager, expectant, excited — 
I came forward, holding in my hand an egg. Then I made them a 
short speech on the various superstitions of mankind, which I con- 
tended had their origin in mysterious facts revealed from the other 
world by God's good providence, for the protection of the innocent, 
and the punishment of the guilty ; and among other things, I men- 
tioned how the ghosts of their victims would often haunt the mur- 
derers, compelling them to reveal their crimes — how land and sea 
had been knov>^n to give up their awful secrets — and how it had been 
asserted, that if the guilty wretch should place his hand upon the 
body O'f the man he had secretly slain, the wounds would bleed 
afresh. 

" And now, gentlemen," I continued, " I hold in my hand as sure 
a test as any I have named. This simple egg, so fair to the view, 
contains the murderer's secret. Let him but take it in his hand, 
and the frail shell will crumble to pieces, and show to all that it is 
filled with the blood of his victim. You •will excuse me, gentlemen, 
for putting you all to this test. We do not know each other's 
secrets — the murderer of the young man we buried yesterday, may 
be among us ; but only the guilty need fear the trial — the innocent 
will surely pass the ordeal unharmed." 

As I said this, I fixed my eyes upon my dark visitor, my suspected 
man. I never saw a more wretched and ghastly countenance, nor a 
greater struggle in any living being to keep a calm and unmoved 
exterior. 



368 



THE MURDERER'S ORDEAL. 



The egg began its round. Some took it gravely, some lightly, 
some turned slightly pale, and some laughed outright. But on it 
went, and came nearer and nearer to the man for whom it was in- 
tended. I saw that he was trembling — that his very lips were 
getting white. 

*' Tt is your turn now !" I said, at length, in a cold, stern tone. 
-' Mine T he answered, with a ghastly attempt at a smile. 
" Why — why — should I — take it ? Poor Wilson was my — my — 
friend !" 

" Let him prove so now !" I said. " All eyes are upon you. 
Take the ordeal sent by Heaven, and prove your innocence — zf you 
can !" 
He glanced hurriedly around. All eyes 
^ were indeed upon him, and with looks of 
awakening suspicion. He made one de- 
Z^T spairing effort to be calm, gulped his breath 
^^ ~ like one choking, and seized 

the fatal egg with trembling 
hands. 

The next moment it was 
crushed to atoms, and his hands 
were wet and stained as if with 
human gore. 

A yell burst from the crowd. A despairing shriek came from the 
lips of the guilty wretch ; and falling, rather than sinking down upon 
his knees, he cried out : 

*' God of mercy, forgive me ! I did kill him ! I did kill him ! for 
his gold, his gold ! his gold ! Oh, cursed gold ! Oh, God of 
Heaven, forgive me !" 

" And how many before him ?" I demanded. 

" Three ! three ! Oh, God of n:tircy, forgive me !" 




IN LESS THAN TEN MINUTES HE WAS UANU- 
LING FROM A NEIGHBOKING TREE. 



THRILLING CONTEST WITH A STAG, 369 

There was another wild yell, or rather a howl of fury — a rush 
like wolves upon their prey — and the poor wretch was seized, almost 
torn limb from limb, and dragged furiously away. 

In less than ten minutes from his confession, he was dangling from 
a neighboring tree — swinging by his neck. 

So died the murderer, whose name I have suppressed, because he 
had respectable friends who are still living. 

I will only add, that, believing him guilty, I had previously pre- 
pared the egg, putting a red coloring fluid in it, expecting to see 
him crush it through his superstitious fears of a supernatural dis- 
covery. They offered me the promised reward for the detection of 
the murderer — but this I declined. Justice was all I had sought, 
and this I had obtained. 



THEILLING CONTEST WITH A STAG-A KEK-TUCKY 
SPOKTSMAN'S STOKY. 

Our Kentucky sportsman had a favorite stag-hound, strong and 
of first-rate Qualities, named Bravo, which he, on one occasion, in 
going on a hunting expedition, left at home; taking in his stead, on 
trial, a fine looking hound which had been presented to him a few 
days before. Having gone a certain length into the woodlands in 
quest of game, he fired at a powerful stag, which he brought down 
after a considerable run, and believed to be dead. The animal, 
however, was only stunned by the shot. On stooping down to bleed 
him, he was no sooner touched with the keen edge of the knife, than 
he rose with a sudden bound, " threw me from his body," says the 
hunter, " and hurled my knife from my hand. I at once saw my 
danger, but it was too late. With one bound he was upon me, 
woundini? and almost disabling me with his sharp hoius and feet. 
24 



3t0 



THRILLING CONTEST WITH A STAG. 



" I seized hira by his wide-spread antlers, and sought to regain 
possession of my knife, but in vain; each new struggle drew us 
farther from it. My horse, frightened at the unusual scene, had 
m-adly fled to an adjoining ridge, where he stood looking down upon 
the combat, trembling and quivering in every limb. My dog had 
not come up, and his bay I could not now hear. 

"The struggles of the furious animal had become dreadful, and 
every moment I could feel his sharp hoofs cutting deep into my 
flesh ; my grasp upon his antlers was growing less firm, and yet I 

relinquished not my 
hold. The struggle 
had brouaht us near 

(^4 




■^^u. ♦^^^ 



WITH ONE BOUND HE WAS UPON ME, 'WOUNDING AND ALMOST DISABLING ME WITH HIS 
SHARP HORNS AND FEET. 

a deep ditch, washed by autumn rains, and into this I endeavored to 
force my adversary; but my strength was unequal to the effort: 
when we approached to the very brink, he leaped over the drain. I 
relinquished my hold and rolled' in, hoping thus to escape him ; but 
he returned to the attack, and throwing himself upon me, inflicted 
numerous severe cuts upon my face and breast before I could again 
seize him. 



THRILLING CONTEST WITH A STAG. 3T1 

" Locking my arms around his antlers, I drew his head close to my 
breast, and was thus, by great effort, enabled to prevent his doing 
me any serious injury. But I felt that this could not last long ; 
every muscle and fibre of my frame was called into action, and 
human nature could not long bear up under such exertion. Falter- 
ing a silent prayer to Heaven, I prepared to meet my fate. 

" At this moment of despair I heard the faint bayings of the hound ; 
the stag too heard the sound, and springing from the ditch, drew 
me with him. His efforts were now redoubled, and I could scarcely 
cling to him. Yet that blessed sound came nearer. Oh, how 
wildly beat my heart as I saw the hound emerge from the ravine, 
and spring forward with a short, quick bark, as his eye rested on his 
game. I released my hold of the stag, who turned upon the new 
enemy. Exhausted, and unable to rise, I still cheered the dog, that, 
dastard like, fled before the infuriated animal, which, seemingly 
despising such an enemy, again threw himself upon me. Again did 
I succeed in throwing my arms around his antlers, but not until he 
had inflicted several dangerous wounds upon my head and face, 
cutting to the very bone. 

" Blinded by the flowing blood,* exhausted and despairing, I 
cursed the coward dog, which stood near, baying furiously, yet 
refusing to seize his game. Oh, how I prayed for Bravo ! The 
thoughts of death were bitter. To die thus in the wild forest, alone, 
with none to help ! Thoughts of home and friends coursed like 
lightning through my brain. 

"At that moment, when hope itself had fled, deep and clear 
ever the neighboring hill came the baying of my gallant Bravo ! I 
should have known his voice among a thousand. I pealed forth, in 
one faint shout — 

" ' On. Bravo, on !" 



3t2 THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER. 

"The next moment, with tiger-like bounds, the noble dog came 
leaping down the declivity, scattering the dried autumnal leaves like 
a whirlwind in his path. No pause he knew ; but, fixing his fangs 
in the stag's throat, he at once commenced the struggle. 

" I fell back, completely exhausted. Blinded with blood, I only 
knew that a terrific struggle was going on. In a few moments all 
was still, and T felt the warm breath of my faithful dog as he licked 
my wounds. Clearing my eyes from gore, I saw my late adversary 
dead at my feet, and Bravo, ' my own Bravo,' as the heroine of a 
modern novel would say, standing over me. He yet bore around 
his neck a fragment of the rope with which I had tied him. He 
had gnawed it in two, and following his master through all his 
windings, arrived in time to rescue him from a most horrible death." 



THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER. 

In the early days of the settlement of South Kentucky, there was 
great trouble with the wolves. The large gray wolf of the more 
wooded northern and middle districts, greatly abounded in the 
heavy forests of the Green River Bottom, particularly in the neigh- 
borhood of Henderson, which is situated on the Ohio, not far below 
the mouth of the Green River. The barn-yard suffered to a great 
extent, in the way of pigs, calves, and poultry, from their depreda- 
tions, which frequently, in mid-winter, were even carried to the 
audacious extreme of attacking human beings. Indeed, it was no 
unusual thing for the belated footman, at such times, when they 
were pressed by hunger, to find himself surrounded by a herd of 
them in the woods. Hence the adventure of old Dick, the fiddler. 

Old Dick, who was the property of one of the Hendersons, from 



THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER. 3T3 

whom the town and county take their names, was esteemed by his 
good-natured and wealthy master, as decidedly a privileged charac- 
ter. He was " a good old good-for-nothing darkey," as the word 
went in the neighhorhood, whose sole merit consisted in his fid- 
dling — but, by the way !— singular as this merit was, — it in reality 
constituted him by far the most important "gemmen of color" 
within forty miles around. He had his time pretty much to him- 




THE OLD DARKEY IN A TIGHT PLACE. 

self, and no one pretended to interfere with its disposal, as his 
master humorously styled him a "necessary nuisance" to the neigh- 
borhood, because he kept the darkeys in a good humor by his 
Iddle. 

Now Dick had most strongly developed the strongest and most 
marked traits of the fiddler, the world over, namely, punctiliousness 
and punctuality. Upon either of these points he was peculiarly 
irritable, nay even ferocious. With all the proverbial timidity of 
the " child of genius," Old Dick was yet as savage as a hyena at any 



374 THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER. 

improprieties of etiquette which might chance to turn up during the 
sable orgies over which he presided ; but nothing caused him to so 
far forget " the proprieties" in his own person, as the intervention 
of any unusual or accidental causes of delay which prevented his 
being on hand in time. Poor Dick ! — but the story will explain. 

On the occasion of a grand wedding festival among the colored 
gentry of a neighboring plantation, some six miles distant, old Dick 
was, of course, expected to officiate as master of the ceremonies. It 
had been an unusually severe winter, and a heavy snow lay upon the 
ground on the eventful evening, when, having donned his "long- 
tailed blue," with its glittering gilt buttons, and mounted the im- 
mense shirt collar, by the aid of which the dignity of his official 
character was properly maintained, the ancient Apollo sallied forth, 
fiddle in hand, to dare the perils of the distant way alone ; for the 
younger darkeys had all gone to the frolic hours ago, with a haste 
and eagerness altogether unbecoming his importance. 

The moon was out, and the stars twinkled merrily over head, as 
the spry old man trudged away over the crisp and crackling snow. 
The path, which was a very narrow one, led, for the greater part of 
the way, through the dark shadows of a heavy bottom forest, which 
yet remained as wild as when the Indians roamed it, and was un- 
traversed by a wagon road for many miles. 

The body and soul of the precise old darkey was goaded at every 
step by the maddening vision of the expectant ranks of sable gen- 
tility, rolling the whites of their eyes and stamping their stocking 
feet upon the puncheon floor, impatient of his delay; for the truth 
was, that he had lingered a little too long over the polishing of those 
brass buttons and the setting of that plentitude of collar, and he 
now first became conscious of it as he had come forth beneath the 
moon and perceived its unexpected height above the horizon. On 




THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER. 375 

he dashed with uurelaxiug energy, heedless of the black shadows 
and hideous night-cries in the deep forest. Wolves were howling 
around him in every direction, but he paid little attention to sounds 
that were so common. He was soon compelled, however, to give 
more heed to these animals than was by any means pleasing or ex- 
pected. 

He had now made nearly 
^-^ half of his 
journey, and 
the light 
op e n i n g 
ahead 
m^jy:^ through the 
trees showed 
him the "old 

PLANTATION SCENE. . 

clearing, ' as 
it was called, through which his path led. The wolves had been 
getting excessively noisy for the last mile ; and to the indescribable 
horror of the old man, he could hear them gathering about him in 
the crackling bushes on either side, as they ran along to keep pace 
with his rapid steps. The woods very soon seemed to the darkey 
to be literally alive with them, as they gathered in yelping packs 
from far and near. 

Wolves are cautious about attacking a human being at once, 
but usually require some little time to work themselves up to the 
point. That such was the case, now proved most lucky for poor 
old Dick, who began to realize the horrible danger, as a dark object 
would brush past his legs every few moments, with a snapping sound 
like the ring of a steel trap ; while the yells and patter of the gather- 
ing wolves increased with terrible rapidity. Dick knew enough of 



376 THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER. 

the habits of the animal, to be fully aware that to run wotild insure 
his instant death, as the cowardly pack would be sure to set upon 
him in a body on the instant of observing any such indication of 
fear. His only chance was to keep them at bay by preserving the 
utmost steadiness until he could reach the open ground before him, 
when he hoped they might leave him, as they do not like to attack 
in the open ground. He remembered, too, that an old hut still 
stood in the middle of the clearing, and the thought that he might 
reach that haven gave him some comfort. 

The wolves were becoming more audacious every minute, and the 
poor old soul could see their green eyes glaring fiery death upon 
him from all the thickets around. They rushed at him more boldly 
one after another, snapping as they went past in closer and closer 
proximity to his thin legs — indeed, the frightened fiddler instinc- 
tively thrust at them with his fiddle to turn them aside. In doing 
so the strings were jarred, and the despairing wretch took on some 
hope to his shivering soul, when he observed the suddenness of the 
sound caused them to leap aside with surprise. He instantly drew 
his hand across the strings with vehemence, and to his infinite relief 
they sprang back and aside as if he had shot amongst them. 
Taking immediate advantage of this lucky diversion in his favor, as 
he had now reached the edge of the clearing, he made a break for 
the hut, raking his hand across the fiddle strings at every jump, 
until they fairly roared again. The astonished wolves paused for a 
moment on the edge of the clearing, with tails between their legs, 
looking after him ; but the sight of his flying form renewed at once 
their savage instincts, and with a loud burst of yells, they pursued 
him at full speed. Alas for the unlucky fiddler, had he been caught 
now, it would have been all up with him, even had his fiddle con- 
tinued to shriek more unearthly shrieks than that of Paganini ever 



THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER, 3tt 

gave forth. He had broken the spell by running-, for had they 
caught him now, they would never have paused to listen, had he 
been an Orpheus in reality. 

Luckily the old man reached the hut just as they were at his 
heels, and slamming the rickety door behind him, he had time to 
climb out on to the roof, where he was comparatively out of danger. 
I say comparatively, for the perch he now occupied, was loo rickety 
to make it any thing rather than desirable, except by contrast with 
the immediate condition from which he had escaped. 

The wolves were now furious, and thronging the interior of the 
hut, leaped up at him with wild yells of gnashing rage. The poor 
old sinner was horribly fright- 
ened, and it required the ut- J^ 
most activity of motion to keep ""- 
his legs from being snapped ^ 
by them. Wild with the T^ ' 
agonized terror as he was, t 
poor old Dick had managed to 
cling to his fiddle through it 
all, and remembering that it little darkeys on a race. 

had saved him in the woods, he now, with the sheer energy of des- 
peration, drew his bow shrieking across the strings, with a sound 
that rose high above all their deafening yells, while, with his feet 
kicking out into the open air, he endeavored to avoid their steel-like 
fangs. An instant silence followed this sudden outburst, and Dick 
continued to produce such frightful spasms of sound as his hysterical 
condition conceived. 

This outbreak kept the wolves quiet for a moment or two, but 
old Dick soon learned, to his increased horror, that even wolves are 
too fastidious to stand bad fiddling, for they commenced a renewal 




31 S THE WOLVES AND THE DARKEY FIDDLER. 

of the attack, as soon as the first surprise was over, more furiously 
than ever. This was too much for the poor fiddler, and most es- 
pecially when the head of a great wolf was thrust up between the 
boards of the roof, within a few inches of where he sat. He gave 
himself up now for a gone darkey, and with the horrified exclama- 
tion — 

" Bress God ! — who dar ?" 

He fell to fiddling Yankee Doodle with all his might, uncon- 
sciously, as the dying swan is said to sing its own requiem in its 
closing moments. With the first notes of the air silence com- 
menced. Orpheus had conquered ! The brutes owned the subdu- 
ing spell, and the terror-stricken fiddler, when he came to himself — 
astonished at the sudden cessation of hostilities— saw he was sur- 
rounded by the most attentive and certainly appreciative audience 
he had ever played before — for the moment there was the slightest 
cessation of the music, every listener sprang forward to renew the 
battle, and set his pipe-stem legs to flying about in the air again. 

But he had now learned the spell, and so long as he continued to 
play with tolerable correctness, was comparatively safe. The old 
fiddler soon forgot his terror now in professional pride, for he was 
decidedly flattered by such intense appreciation ; and entering fully 
into the spirit of the thing, played with a gusto and effect such as 
he thought he had never before surpassed or even equalled. Even 
the wedding, with its warm lights, its sweetened whiskey, was for- 
gotten for the time in the glow of this new professional triumph. 

But all pleasures have their drawbacks on this earth ; and as time 
progressed he began, with all his enthusiasm, to feel very natural 
symptoms of cold, fatigue, and even exhaustion. But it would not 
do — he could not stop a moment before they were at him again — 
and there they persistently sat, that shaggy troop of connoisseurs, 



THE murderer's CREEK. 



379 



fidgeting on their haunches, with lolling tongues and pricked ears, 
listening to their compulsory charmer, for several weary hours, until 
the negroes at the wedding, becoming impatient or alarmed about 
the old man, came out to look for him, and found him thus perched 
upon the roof of the tottering hut, sawing away for dear life, while 
he was ready to drop every instant from sheer fatigue and the freez- 
ing cold. They rescued the old man from his comfortless position, 
while the lingering forms of his late audience told that they most 
unwillingly surrendered the fruition of their unwonted feast. 



THE MURDEREK'S CREEK. 

There is a little stream which runs into that most beautiful of all 
rivers, the noble Hudson, that still bears the name of the Murderer's 




BOUND TO .THE STAKE— AN INCIDENT OP SAVAGE WARFARE. 

Creek, though few perhaps can tell why it was so called. About a 
century ago, the beautiful region watered by this stream was pos- 



380 THE murderer's creek. 

sessed by a small tribe of Indians, which has long since become 
extinct, or incorporated with some more powerful nation of the 
west. Three or four hundred yards from the mouth of this little 
river, a white family of the name of Stacey had established itself in 
a log house, by tacit permission of the tribe, to whom Stacey had 
made himself useful by his skill in a variety of arts highly estimated 
by the savages. In particular a friendship subsisted between him 
and an old Indian, called Naoman, who often came to his house, 
and partook of his hospitality. The family consisted of Stacey, his 
wife, and two children, a boy and a girl, the former five and the 
latter three years old. 

The Indians never forgive injuries njor forget benefits. 

One day Naoman came to Stacey's log house in his absence, 
lighted his pipe and sat down. He looked unusually serious, some- 
times sighed deeply, but said not a word. Stacey's wife asked him 
what was the matter, — if he were ill ? He shook his head, but said 
nothing, and soon went away. 

The next day he came, and behaved in the same manner. Stacey's 
wife began to think there was something strange in all this, and ac- 
quainted her husband with the matter as soon as he came home. 
He advised her to urge the old man to explain his conduct, in case 
he should come again, which he did the following day. After much 
importunity, the old Indian at last replied to her questions in this 
manner : 

" I am a red man, and the pale faces are our enemies ; why should 
I speak ?" 

" But my husband and I are your friends ; you have eaten bread 
with us a hundred times, and my children have sat on your knees as 
often. If you have any thing on your mind, tell it me now." 

" It will cost me my life if it is known, and you white-faced women 
are not good at keeping secrets," replied Naoman. 



THE murderer's CREEK. 381 

"Try me, and you will find that I can," said she. 

" Will you swear by the Great Spirit that you will tell none but 
your husband ?" 

" I have no one else to tell." 

"But will you swear?" 

"I do swear, by our Great Spirit, that I will tell none but my 
husband." 

"Not if my tribe should kill you for not telling?" 

" No, not though your tribe should kill me for not telling." 

Naoman then proceeded to tell her, that owing to the frequent 
encroachments of the white people on their land at the foot of the 
mountains, his tribe had become exceedingly angry, and were re- 
solved that night to massacre all the white settlers within their 
reach ; that she must send for her husband, and inform him of the 
danger, and as secretly and speedily as possible, take their canoe, 
and paddle with all haste over the river to Fishkill for safety. 

"Be quick, and cause no suspicion," said Naoman, as he departed. 

The good wife instantly sought her husband, who was down on 
the river fishing, told him the story, and as no time was to be lost, 
they proceeded to their boat, which was unluckily filled with water. 
It took some time to clear it out ; and meanwhile Stacey recollected 
his gun, which he had left behind. He went to his house and re- 
turned with it. All this took a considerable time, and precious 
time it proved to this poor family. 

The daily visits of Naoman, and his more than ordinary gravity, 
bad excited suspicion in some of his tribe, who therefore now paid 
particular attention to the movements of Stacey. One of the young 
Indians who had been kept on the watch, seeing the whole family 
about to take the boat, ran to the little Indian village, about a mile 
off, and gave the alarm. 



382 



THE MURDERER'S CREEK. 



Five stout Indians immediately collected, and ran down to the 
river, where their canoes were moored, jumped in, and paddled after 
Stacey, who, by this time, had got some distance out into the stream. 
They gained upon him so fast, that twice he dropped his paddle and 
took up his gun. But his wife prevented his shooting, by telling 
him that if he fired, and they were afterwards overtaken, they would 
meet with no mercy from the Indians. He accordingly refrained, 
and plied his paddle, till the sweat rolled in big drops down his 
forehead. 

All would not do ; they reached the opposite shore, but were 
quickly overtaken, and carried back with shouts and yells of 
triumph. 

The first thing the Indians did when they got ashore, was to set 
fire to Stacey's house. They then dragged him, his wife and chil- 
dren, to their village. 
^^^^^^^^^^^^ /fe: Here the principal old 
^/ - '$^^^4^^:-/' men, and Naoman 

among them, assem- 
bled to deliberate on 
the affair. The chief 
men of the council ex- 
pressed their opinion 
that some of the tribe 
had been guilty of 
treason, in apprising 
THE FLIGHT AND THE PURSUIT. Staccy, thc whitc mau, 

of their designs, whereby they took alarm, and had well nigh es- 
caped. They proposed that the prisoners should be examined in 
order to discover who was the traitor. The old men assented to 
this, and one of them who spoke English, began by interrogating 
Stacey, and interpreted what was said to the others. 




THE murderer's CREEK. 383 

Stacey refused to betray his informant. 

His wife was then questioned, while two Indians stood threatening 
the children with their uplifted tomahawks, in case she did not con- 
fess. She attempted to evade the truth, by pretending that she had 
a dream the night before, which had warned her to fly, and that she 
had persuaded her husband to do so. 

"The Great Spirit never deigns to talk in dreams to the white 
faces," said one of the old Indians. "Woman, thou hast two 
tongues and two faces ; speak the truth, or thy children shall surely 
die." 

The little boy and girl were then brought close to her, and the 
two savages stood over them ready to execute their cruel orders. 

"Wilt thou name that red man," said the old Indian, "who be- 
trayed his tribe ? I will ask thee three times." 

The mother made no answer. 

" Wilt thou name the traitor ? This is the second time." 

The poor woman looked at her husband, and then at her children, 
and stole a glance at Naoman, who sat smoking his pipe with in- 
vincible gravity. She wrung her hands and wept, but remained 
silent. 

" Wilt thou name the traitor ? I ask you for the third and last 
time." 

The agony of the mother was more and more intense ; again she 
sought the eye of Naoman, but it was cold and motionless. A mo- 
ment's delay was made for her reply. She was silent. The toma- 
hawks were raised over the heads of her children, who besought 
their mother to release them, 

" Stop !" cried Naoman. All eyes were instantly turned upon him. 

"Stop!" repeated he, in a tone of authority. "White woman, 
thou hast kept thy v.-ord with me to the last moment. Chiefs, 1 am 



384 THE MURDERER'S CREEK. 

the traitor. I have eaten the bread, warmed myself at the fire, and 
shared the kindness of these Christian white people, and it was I 
who told them of their danger. I am a withered, leafless, branchless 
trunk ; cut me down if you will ; I am ready to fall." 

A yell of indignation resounded on all sides. Naoman descended 
from the little bank of earth on which he sat, shrouded his dark 
countenance in his buffalo robe, and calmly awaited his fate. He 
fell dead at the feet of the white woman, by a blow of the tomahawk. 

But the sacrifice of Naoman and the heroic firmness of the Chris, 
tian white woman, did not sufiice to save the lives of the other vic- 
tims. They perished — how, it is needless to say ; but the memory 
of their fate has been preserved in the name of the beautiful little 
stream on whose banks they lived and died, which to this day is 
called the Murderer's Creek. 



THE END. 



A BOOK FOR EVERY FAMILY IN THE UNION. 



THE 

RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS 

IN THB 

UNITED STATES; 

THEIR HISTORY, DOCTRINE, GOVERNMENT AND STATISTICS ; WITH 

A PRELIMINARY SKETCH OF JUDAISM, PAGANISM, 

AND MOHAMMEDANISM. 

By rev. JOSEPH belcher, D.D. 

■OKORARY MEMBER OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETIES OF PENNSYLVANIA AND WISCONSW, 
AUTHOR OF "WILLIAM CAREY, A BIOGRAPHY," ETC., ETC., AND "EDITOR 
OF THE COMPLETE WORKS OF ANDREW FULLER," 
"WORKS OF ROBERT HALL," ETC. ETC. 



Standing on the broad foundation of universal Brotherhood, this 
volume gives the History and Present Condition of some Fifty dif- 
ferent Sects, pointing out the peculiar doctrines of each, and giving 
all a fair, impartial, and reliable hearing. The Publications of each 
Denomination have been its authorities ; and where these have 
failed to be fully satisfactory, the information sought for has been 
gained by direct correspondence with some of its prominent mem- 
bers. Its Statistical Tables are very full and complete ; while the 
vast amount of information it contains, renders it invaluable to 
the student as a book of reference or research. A warm and genial 
spirit pervades the work throughout ; which, vrith its short and 
pithy memoirs and numerous illustrative anecdotes, will tend to 
ensure it an eager welcome to many a family circle. 

It is in one royal octavo volume of 1024 pages, printed in a clear 
and open type, is illustrated with nearly two hundred Engravings, 
and will be furnished in various styles of binding to suit every tast*». 

On the following page we have annexed a few out of many 

notices received, all of which show a higli appreciation of its 

merits. 

(i) 



A BOOK FOR EVERY FAMILY IN THE UNION, 



BELCHER'S EELTGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— " It embodies a vast 
amount of information relative to the Origin, History, and Missionary Opera- 
tions or" the different Religious Denominations in this Country, presented in a 
remarkably interesting and attractive manner. With respect to Binding, 
Paper, and Typography, the Book may be regarded as a model — a Beautiful, 
Substantial, and Attractive Volume." — Bev. John Bowling, D.D.., Author of 
''The History of Romanism," "Jiidso7i Offering," etc., etc. 

BELCHER'S RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— "The plan of the work 
is good. It contains an immense amount of very desirable information. The 
Author is an able and reliable Writer." — J. H. Mills, President Oxford Female 
College, Oxford, N. C. 

BELCHER'S RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— "I have read a copy 
of Religious Denominations by Belcher, and regard it as containing a large 
amount of valuable information." — Rev. W. E. Booth, of the Methodist Church, 
Talbot County, Ga. 



BELCHER'S RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— "To great and various 
learning and marked ability, Dr. Belcher adds that precious quality, an 
abounding charity toward all his brethren of the human race, which effectu- 
ally prevents his indulging in a captious or acrimonious treatment of their 
respective Creeds. He allows the different Sects to expound their OAvn Tenets 
and give their reasons for adopting them, and treats every man as a Friend 
and Brother." — North American. 



BELCHER'S RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— " It is the misfortune 
of American Christianity that Professors of the several Denominations knovT 
too little of the faith and doings of those not within their own pale. Such a 
book as this serves to contribute much desirable information to meet that 
need." — Recorder and Register. 



BELCHER'S RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— "Judging from the 
T^ork, it would be difficult to say what are the Religious Views of the Editor, 
so fairly, so dispassionately, so charitably, has he treated each and every Sect. 
It is plain that a noble love for Truth has animated the Writer." — City Item. 

BELCHER'S RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— " In narrative and bio- 
graphical sketches, the Author ranks with the best writers of our Country. 
In the volume before us, he gives well-written sketches of the Rise and 
Progress of the Denominntious in this Country, a stntemcnt of their leading 
Tenets, and of their Numbers, Institutions, etc., relieved by many historical 
and personal incidents of a highly interesting Character." — Christiun Observer. 



BELCHER'S RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS.— " So far as concerns 
Independence of Vision, there can be no question, as Dr. Belcher surveys 
each Sect with the same dispassionate impartiality. So far as concerns Style, 
it gives us much pleasure to say, that the work throughout is written with 
both precision and ease." — Episcopal Recorder. 



For single copies of tlie Book, or for terms to Agents, with other 
information, apply to or address, 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sansoyn Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 



A COMPANION TO THE FAMILY BIBLE, 



THE LIFE 



Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Chris?, 

FROM 

His Incarnation to His Ascension into Heaven. 

By Rev. JOHN FLEETWOOD, D.D. 



TO WHICH ARE ADDED 



The lilves of tlie Holy Apostles and Evangelists, a History ol 
the Jeivs, and an Essay on the Evidences of the Bihle; 



THE WHOLE CAREFULLY REVISED 



By Rev. JOSEPH BELCHER, D.D. 



An examination of the earlier English and Scotch editions of thig 

valuable and popular work, led to a knowledge of the fact that 

even the most expensive of the American reprints, as well as those 

most largely circulated, were exceedingly imperfect. Whole pages, 

and frequently many in succession, were found to be altogethei 

omitted. Thus, for no other purpose than to reduce the number of 

pages in the volume, omissions were made of much that was impor- 

tai.t to meet the objections of infidelity, and to silence the enemies 

of Christ. This edition has been thoroughly revised by the late 

llev. Dr. Belcher, and with the omitted passages restored, and the 

manifold mistakes of successive printers correc-ted, the Publisher 

has the pleasure of placing before the public the most correct edition 

in existence of this truly great work. 

(iii) 



A COMPMlOxN TO THE FAfflLY BIBLE. 



'* The life of Jesus Christ is the philosopliy of true religion. It 
exhibits the principles of Christianity in their purity and beauty. 
It is perfect excellence personified, that the mind of man may grasp 
it and be changed into the same image. It is unlike all others — 
so sublime as to excite the admiration of an angel's mind, and yet 
so simple as to be intelligible to the feeblest intellect. While it is a 
perfect example to be imitated by all, it also affords to the sanctified 
scholar a lesson of untiring and unending interest. Does he admire 
magnanimity ? Nowhere does he find such a specimen, as in the 
forgiving spirit of Jesus. Does he admire sublimity of thought and 
grandeur of conception ? He sees it in the description of Jesus 
coming to judgment— a God in glory and a world on fire ! Is he 
touched and thrilled by the magic of eloquence ? While he listens 
to Jesus, he is constrained to acknowledge never man spake like i/iis 
man. Is he enamored with the beauties of style ? Nowhere can lie 
find a richer feast than in the clearness, unity, strength and har- 
mony which characterize the Sermon on the Mount. 

Has he an eye to relish the beauties of painting ? Jesus as a moral 
painter spreads before him meadows of greenness ; and fields of lilies. 
Has he a taste for scenes of tenderness, for descriptions which stir 
the heart, and open the fountains of feeling ? He has only to behold 
Jesus weeping over Jerusalem, and listen to his lamentation ! He 
has only to read the story of the Prodigal Son. If he admires courage 
— let him go with Jesus among those who had converted the Temple 
into a den of thieves ; fortitude — let him follow the Man of Sorrows^ 
into the Garden, or stand by him on the Cross ; condescension — let 
him dine with him at the table of the Publican and witness his 
marked attention to little children ; or humilitij — let him stand by 
and behold him wash his disciples' feet. The inspired writers have 
given us his life in detached descriptions. Dr. Fleetwood has ar- 
ranged these into one harmonious whole, with such comments, ex- 
planations and incidental information, as to render it alike accepta- 
ble to the scholar as to 'him who knows no more, but knows his 
Bible true.' If the attentive reader finds any occasion for regret, 
it will only be when the last page meets his eye." 

It is printed in a clear and open type, in one Royal Octavo Volume, 
and is Illustrated with appropriate engravings, printed in colors, 
or with fine Steel Plates, engraved expressly for the work fiom de- 
signs by the old masters, and will be furnished in various styles of 
binding at prices ranging from $2.00 to $5.00. 
Address all Orders to 

JOHIT E. jE'OTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sansom Street, Philadelplna, Pa. 

(It) 



THE PEOPLE'S GREAT BOOK. 



EVERYBODY'S LAWYER 



AND 



COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS 

By FEANK CEOSBY, Esq., 

member of the philadelphia bar. 



IT TELLS YOU How to draw up Partnership Papers, Bonds and Mort- 
gages, Affidavits, Powers of Attorney, Notes and 
Bills of Exchange, and gives general forms for Agree- 
ments of all kinds, Bills of Sale, Leases, Petitions, 
Receipts and Releases. 

IT TELLS YOU The Laws for the Collection op Debts, with the Sta- 
tutes of Limitation, and amount and kind of Property 
Exempt from Execution, in every State ; also how to 
make an Assignment properly, with forms for Compo- 
sition with Creditors, and the Insolvent Laws of every 
State. 

IT TELLS YOU The legal relations existing between Guardian and Ward, 
Master and Apprentice, and Landlord and Tenant ; 
also what constitutes Libel and Slander, and the law as 
to Marriage, Dower, the Wife's Right in Property, 
Divorce and Alimony. 

IT TELLS YOU The Law for Mechanics' Liens in every State ; and the 
Naturalization Laws of this country, and how to com- 
ply with the same; also the Law concerning Pensions, 
and how to obtain one, and the Pre-emption Laws to 
Public Lands. 

IT TELLS YOU The Law for Patents with mode of procedure in obtaining 
one, with Interferences, Assignments, and Table of 
Fees ; also how to make your Will, and how to Ad- 
minister ON AN Estate, with the law, and requirements 
thereof, in every State. 

IT TELLS YOU The meaning of Law Terms in general use, and explains 
to you the Legislative, Executive and Judicial Pow- 
ers of both the General and State Governments ; also 
HOW TO KEEP OUT OF LAW by showing how to do 
your business legally, thus saving a vast amount of 
property, and vexatious litigation, by its timely consul- 
tation. 

The Book gives full and complete forms calculated to meet almost every pos- 
sible business contingency. Its directions and advice are alike adapted to 
every State in the Union, and are not only reliable but are given in so clear 
and distinct a style that it is hardly possible for a misunderstanding to occur. 
It should be in the hands of every man and woman throughout the country 
as a guide for the business transactions of every-day life. Read the Notices 
of the Press on the following page, 

{▼) 



THE PEOPLE'S GREAT BOOK. 



EVERYBODY'S LAWYER AND COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS.— " ll 
embodies in some 400 pages the lacts of a whole law library, admirably con' 
densed, and systematically arranged. It must taice .a very high rank as a 
hand-book and business guid«k" — Pennsylvunian. 

EVERYBODY'S LAWYER AND COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS.— "It 
contains every desirable kind of legal information, and will be the means of 
saving those who may possess a copy of it, a great deal of money in the way 
of fees, besides trouble and anxiety in the matter of litigation. The price is 
cheap enough in all conscience for an amount of law that will keep one out of 
trouble for a lifetime." — Pittsburg Journal. 



EVERYBODY'S LAWYER AND COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS.— "One 
of the cheapest and best publications ever issued. It is of interest and 
value to every citizen, whether he is engaged in business or not. It will enable 
those who consult its pages to perform certain acts intelligently and without 
expense, which are now costly affairs. We commend this admirable work to 
general attention." — United States Police Gazette. 



EVERYBODY'S LAWYER AND COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS.— "De- 
cidedly' one of the most useful and popular books which has come under our 
notice. It seems to contain everything which any business luan may desire 
and ought to know. It has been submitted to the inspection of eminent jur- 
ists and legal critics, and pronounced reliable and authentic in the informa- 
tion it imparts. Nobody should be without it," — Lancaster Express. 



EVERYBODY'S LAWYER AND COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS.— 

** Everything is full and to the point. There are no blanks in forms. They 
are filled with names, dates, recitals, and are indeed, actual instruments le- 
gally and actually drawn. The fact is, it is as nearly perfect as possible ; and 
we venture to say, that any one who purchases, would not part with it for 
five times the price, if it could not be replaced, — Westchester Democrat. 



EVERYBODY'S LAWYER AND COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS.— "The 

book before us, as the title denotes, is just such as everybody must have — to 
avoid litigation, and the trouble and expense incident to a lawyer's office. It 
must have cost Mr. Crosby some considerable effort to have put forth a work 
that will so materially conflict with professional fees ; and much labor to collate 
such a vast amount of information," — National 31erchant. 



EVERYBODY'S LAWYER AND COUNSELLOR IN BUSINESS.— "The 
sale, we are credibly informed, has reached over 10,000 copies a month, and 
the deiiand for it is rapidly increasing. No man or woman in the country, 
no matter what their business or profession, or sphere of life, ought to be with- 
out it," — Evening Bcj^orter. 



It contains 384 pages, printed in a clear and open type, and will be 
sent by mail, neatly bound and postage paid, to Every Farmer, Every 
Mechanic, Every Man of Business, and Everybody in Every State, on 
receipt of $1.00 ; or in law style of binding, at $1.25. Address all 
trders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sa7isom Street, Philadelphia, Pa» 



WHAT EVERYBODY WANTS. 

THE FAMILY DOCTOR; 



C O K T A I N I N G 



SIMPLE REMEDIES, EASILY OBTAINED, EOR THE 
CURE OF DISEASE IN ALL FORMS. 



PROFESSOR HENRY S. TAYLOR, M.D. 



IT TELLS YOU How to attend upon the sick and how to cook for them ; 
how to prepare Drinks, Poultices, etc., and how to guard 
against Infection from Contagous Diseases ; also of the 
Symptoms of Fever and Ague, and Bilious, Yellow, 
Typhus, Scarlet, and other Fevers, with the best and 
simplest remedies for their cure. 

TT TELLS YOU Of the various diseases of Children, and gives the symp- 
toms of Croup. Cholera Infantum, Colic, Diarrhoea, 
Worms, Scalled Head, Ringworm, Chicken Pox, etc., with 
the best and simplest mode of treatment; also of Teething, 
Convulsions, Vaocinntion, Whooping Cough, Measles, &c. 

IT TELLS YOU The Symptoms of Influenza, Consumption, Dyspepsia, 
Asthma, Dropsy, Gout, Rheumatism, Lumbago, Erysip- 
elas, Cholera Morbus, Malignant Cholera, Small Pox, 
Dysentery, Cramj.. Diseases of the Bladder, Kidneys and 
Liver, and gives the best and simplest remedies for their 
cure. 

TT TELLS YOU The symptoms of Pleurisy, Mumps, Neuralgia, Apoplexy, 

ii xr.uu^ Paralysis, the various diseases of the Throat, Teeth, 

Ear and Eye, Epilepsy, Jaundice, Piles, Rupture, Dis- 
eases of the Heart, Hemorrhage, Venereal Diseases, and 
Hydrophobia, and gives the best and simplest remedies 
for their cure. 

TT TFLLS YOU The best and simplest treatment for Wounds, Broken Bones, 
and Dislocations, Sprains, Lockjaw, Fever Sores, TVhite 
Swellings, Ulcers, Whitlows, Boils, Scurvy, Burns, and 
Scrofula. Also of the various diseases peculiar to Wo- 
man, and the best remedies for their cure. 

The work is written in plain language, free frona medical terms, so as to be 
easily understood, and is specially adapted to fomily and individual use. Al- 
ways at hand and ready to serve you, its simple recipes may soon save you 
much suffering and many times the cost of the book. Read the notices of 
the Press on the following page. ^^..^ 



WHAT EYEKYBODY WANTS. 



THE FAMILY DOCTOR.—" It will be a treasure of wisdom, health, and 
economy to every family that shall purchase and use it." — Philadelphia 
Family Magazine. 

THE FAMILY DOCTOR.— "A very excellent specimen of a very excellent 
class of books, one of which at least ought to be in every family. It is free from 
'medical terms,' gives much sound, sensible advice as to the preservation of 
health, and may be commended as a work which every family will find a use 
for, time and again, during the year." — Philadelphia Evening Bulletin. 



THE FAMILY DOCTOR.—" The reader will find many excellent pre- 
scriptions and sound admonitions in this volume." — Godey's Lady's Booh. 



THE FAMILY" DOCTOR.— "The general directions in the commencement 
of the volume respecting the preservation of health, are very judicious and 
valuable." — Presbyterian Banner. 



THE FAMILY DOCTOR.— "A very useful book, which can be studied 
Trith advantage." — Philadelphia Ledger. 



THE FAMILY DOCTOR.— "The descriptions of disease are clear, and 
not rendered difficult by technical terms. It will be useful in every family, 
and well deserves an extensive circulation." — Philadelphia Dispatch. 



THE FAMILY DOCTOR.— " The work is eminently practical and bene- 
ficial. It is designed to aid each mother in the prompt relief of pain. Its 
wholesome advice, if followed, will prevent much disease and suffering." — 
Philadelpthia Herald. 



THE FAMILY DOCTOR.— "We are much pleased with the Book, and 
cheerfully recommend it to the public as a safe counsellor for any family." — ■ 
Independent, Jiogersville, Tennessee. 

THE FAMILY DOCTOR.— "It is almost indispensable in every family. 
It treats on all prevalent diseases connected with the human race, for which 
cures are given that are within the reach of every one." — llaryland, Carroll 
County Herald. 

THE FAMILY DOCTOR.— "This is a plain kind of Doctor, and talks to 
us in yjlain Language, easily understood by jDlain people. It contains many 
accurate descriptions of diseases of children and adults, and many excellent 
prescriptions for their cure." — Sabbath Recorder. 



It contains 308 pages, printed in a clear and open type ; is illus- 
trated with appropriate engravings, and will Tbe forwarded to any 
address, neatly bound, and postage paid, on receipt of $1.00. 

Addkess all orders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sansom Street, PhiladelpMa, Pa. 

(Till) 



Should be Read by every Citizen of the United States; 

NICARAGUA: 

PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE; 

A DESCRIPTION OP ITS 

INHABITANTS, CUSTOMS, MINES, MINERALS, EARLY HISTORY, 

MODERN FILIBUSTERISM, PROPOSED INTER-OCEANIC 

CANAL, AND MANIFEST DESTINY. 

By peter F. stout, Esq., 

Late United States Vice-Consul. 



"^^itli a NcTV and Improved Map of the Country, appropriately 

Colored. 



With a population sufficient to rouse her from the lethargy of the Past, with 
products capable of placing her among the most vigorous nations, and with a 
superabundance of mineral wealth, naught seems wanting in this young Re- 
public save an innatp spirit of enterprise. Her soil is generous, and to tha 
agriculturist indeed inviting. Many sections are admirably adapted to tha 
growth of Cotton, or to the cultivation of Sugar, while her Tobacco rankfl 
high. But as yet her vast Mineral wealth yields Gold only to strangers, 
■while her public lands are unredeemed from total neglect. Disunion, that 
baneful, leprous curse, prowls through her realm; and Religion, in the ab- 
sence of her first-born. Education, doubly mourns the inattention to her invo- 
cations. Lying in the path of the thriving, entarprising Republic of the United 
Slates, she must either rouse from her apathi/, or she icill indeed add, in a few 
years, hut one more star to our banner. 

"It bears evidence of being written in a masterly style, and abounds in in- 
teresting historical reminiscences of the Mosquito Kingdom. The work is 
worthy of attentive perusal; and we feel satit^fied that the time thus spent 
will be amply repaid in the knowledge obtained of the Central American 
States." — Baltimore Eeptiblican. 

"One of the most agreenbly written Books of Travel we have met with in a 
long time. Its style is simple without poverty of expression, and elegant 
without ostentation; and while it presents its pictures in a soft romantic light, 
it is filled with valuable and accurate information." — Porter's Spirit of the 
Times. 

It is printed on beautiful paper, in a clear and open type, is neatly 
bound in cloth, and will bo forwarded to any address, postage paid, 
on receipt of $1.25. Address all orders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 

'X) 



THE 

EARLY BiYS OF GiLIFOENIA. 

EMBRACING 

WHAT I SAW AND HEARD THERE, 

WITH SCENES IN THE PACIFIC. 

By Col. J. T. FAKNHAM. 

Illustrated 12mo. Cloth Extra, $1.00 



AFFECTION'S GIFT 

FOR 

THE LOVING AND THE LOVED. 

POEMS. 

By JOHN COLE HAGEN, 

Illustrated 12mo. Clotli, Gilt, $1 00 



THE 



^. „..,.. , ,, ,,, 



■JJf&SiX'^M^-' ■). 






A TOKEN OF LOVE. 

Illustrated 12mo. Cloth, Extra, $1 00 

Address all Orders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

/Vb. 617 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 



GREAT WORK ON THE HORSE. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES. 



ROBERT JENNINGS, Y.S., 

PROFESSOR OP PATHOLOGT ANIi OPERATIVE SURGERY IN THE VETERINART COLLEGE OP 
PHILADELPHIA ; PROFESSOR OF VETERINART MEDICINE IN THE LATE AGRICUL- 
TURAL COLLEGE OF OHIO ; SECRETARY OF THE AMERICAN VETER- 
INARY ASSOCIATION OF PHILADELPHIA, ETC., ETC. 



IT TELLS YOU Of the Origin, History, and distinctive traits of the various breeds of 
European, Asiatic, African, and American Horses, with the physical 
formation and peculiarities of the animal, and how to ascertain his 
age by the number aad coudition of his leeth ; also of Breedfaig, 
Breaking, Stabling, Feeding, Grooming. Shoeing, and the general 
management of the horse, with the best modes of administering 
medicine, and how to treat Biting, Kicking, Bearing, Shying, Stum- 
bling, Crib Biting, Restlesness, aad other vices to which he is sub- 
ject; with numerous explanatory engravings. 

IT TELLS YOU Of the causes, symptoms, and Treatment of Strangles, Sore Throat, 
Distemper, Catarrh, Influenza, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Pleurisy, 
Broken Wind, Chronic Cough, Koaring and Whistling, Lampas, 
Sore Mouth and Ulcers, and Decayed Teeth, with other diseases of 
the Mouth and Respiratory Organs ; also of Worms, Bots, Colic, 
Strangulation, Stony Concretions, Ruptures, Palsy, Diarrhoea, 
Jaundice, Hepatirrhoea, Bloody Urine, Stones in the Kidneys and 
Bladder, Inflammation, and other diseases of the Stomach, Bowels, 
Liver and Urinary Organs. 

IT TELLS YOU Of the causes, symptoms, and Treatment of Bone, Blood, and Bog 
Spavin, Ring Bone, Sweenie, Strains, Broken Knees, Wind Galls, 
Founder, Sole Bruise and Gravel, Cracked Hoofs, Scratches, Canker, 
Thrush and Corns ; also of Megrims, Vertigo, Epilepsy, Staggers, 
and other diseases of the Feet, Legs, and Head ; of Fistula, Poll 
Evil, Glanders, Farcy, Scarlet Fever, Mange, Surfeit, Locked Jaw, 
Rheumatism, Cramp, Galls, Diseases of the Eye and Heart, etc., etc., 
and how to manage Castration, Bleeding, Trephining, Roweling, 
Firing, Hernia, Amputation, Tapping, and other Surgical opera- 
tions. 

IT TELLS YOU Of Rarey's Method of Taming Horses; how to Approach, Halter, or 
Stable a Colt ; how to accustom a horse to strange sounds and sights, 
and how to Bit, Saddle, Ride, and Break him to Harness ; also, the 
FORM and LAW of Warranty. The whole being the result of more 
than fifteen years careful study of the habits, peculiarities, wants, 
and weaknesses of this noble and useful animal. 

4»* For terms and notices of the Press, see following page. 

(xi) 



GREAT WORK ON THE HORSE. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.—" The most full, thorough, practical and scien- 
tific treatise ou this subject yet produced. Besides the knowledge conveyed in the text, 
it is pictorially admirable." — North American. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.— "There are many suggestions on Breeding 
which all agriculturists and breeders should read and study. Their vices are treated 
in a very sensible manner, and all the diseases which horse-flesh is heir to, are de- 
scribed, with their symptoms, preventives and cures." — Spirit of the Times. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.—" One of the most valuable works on the horse 
now in print. Every variety of the horse is well described ; the diseases to which they 
are subject are explained and treated with a masterly hand. Professor Jennings is 
well known to our readers, and this work is wi'itten in his best style." — Wilkes'' Spirit 
of the Times. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.— " The treatise is plainly written, and it em- 
bodies a valuable amount of information, with directions as to the best manner of cure, 
and every thing that will redound to the health and comfort of the noble animal. 
There is every thing which a horseman ought to know and practice." — Sunday Dis- 
patch. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.— " Dr. Jennings is well and favorably known in 
his profession, and in the book before us has increased his title to the respect and 
grateful ackuowledgemeuts of every one interested in the well-being and impi'ovement 
of the noble animal of which he treats. No one of the many able works on the horse 
that have hitherto appeared, contains such a comprehensive and practical treatment 
of the various subjects." — Pennsylvania n. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.—" We have, in this volume, 9, most complete 
treatise upon veterinary science, or the cure of the diseases of the horse, by a gentleman 
who enjoys a reputation second to that of no other veterinary surgeon in the United 
States. The work is largely and handsomely illustrated."—!/. S. Police Gazette. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.— "A sensible and practical treatise, and while 
brief as is wise, it is very comprehensive in subject and clear and forcible in the ex- 
pression of its views. It will make an excellent companion for every owner and 
keeper of this noble animal." — New York Observer. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.— "The author of this work is, from his position, 
eminently qualified to write upon the subject of the horse and his diseases."— Pfti7a- 
delphia Inquirer. 



It contains 384 pages, printed in a clear and open type ; is illustrated with nearly 
100 engravings, and will be forwarded to any address, postage paid, on receipt of f 1, or 
in cloth extra, $1.25. Address ail orders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sansom St., Pliiladelptiia, Pa. 

(xii) 



SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR FAMILY AND PULPIT USE. 



THE 




CONTAINING 

The Old and New Testaments, The Apocrypha, Concor- 
dance, and Psalms of David in Metre, etc., etc. 



No. ONE, Is printed in large-sized type on fair paper, in one Royal Quarto 
Volume, and is illustrated with 10 Engravings and Family 
Record. It is bound in Embossed Leather, Marbled Edges, 
Gilt Back, and Gold Stamp on one side. Price $3.75. 

No. TWO, Same size as No. 1, is illustrated with 8 Colored Engravings 
and Family Record. It is bound in Embossed Leather, 
Marbled Edges, Gilt Back, and Gold Stamp on both sides. 
Price $5.00. 

No. THREE, Same size as No. 1, is illustrated with 14 steel and colored 
Plates and Family Record. It is handsomely bound in Roan, 
with full Gilt Edges, Back and Sides. Price $7.00. 

No. FOUR, Larger size on heavier paper, is illustrated with 14 Plates, 
Maps and Illuminations, with neat Family Record. It is 
handsomely bound in Imitation Turkey, with full Gilt Edges, 
Back and Sides. Price $9.00. 

No. FIVE, Same size as No. 4, is illustrated with 18 Steel Plates, Maps, 
and Illuminations and neat Family Record. It is handsomely 
bound in Turkey Morocco, with fall Gilt Edges, Back and 
Sides. Price $12.00. 

No. SIX, Same size as No. 4, on fine paper, is illustrated with 22 Steel 
Plates, Maps, and Illuminations and Family Record. It is 
richly bound in super extra Turkey Morocco, Gilt Edges, 
Back and Sides, with Clasp. Price $15.00. 

In addition to the above, each style contains Marginal Notes and Refer- 
ences, an Index, and various valuable Tables. 

Agents are wanted everywere for the sale of these Bibles and other books 
of ours, who will find them very popular and with whom very liberal arrange- 
ments will be made. 

Addre8$ all orders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sansom St., Pliiladelpbla. Pa. 

(xiii) 



THE PEOPLE'S COOK BOOK. 



MODERN COOKERY 

IN ALL ITS BRANCHES. 
BY MISS ELIZA ACTOK 

CAEEFULLY REVISED BY MRS. S. J. HALE. 



IT TELLS YOU How to choose all kinds of Meats, Poultry, and Game, 
with all the various and most approved modes of dress- 
ing and cooking Beef and Pork; also the best and sim- 
plest way of salting, pickling and curing the same. All 
the various and most approved modes of dressing, cook- 
ing, and boning Mutton, Lamb, Veal, Poultry, and Game 
of all kinds, with the dififerent Dressings, Gravies, and 
Stuffings appropriate to each. 

IT TELLS YOU How to choose, clean, and preserve Fish of all kinds, and 
how to sweeten it when tainted; also all the various and 
most approved modes of cooking, with the different Dress- 
ings, Sauces, and Flavorings, appropriate to each. All the 
various and most approved modes of preparing over fifty 
different kinds of Meat, Fish, Fowl, Game, and Vegetable 
Soups, Broths, and Stews, with the Relishes and Season- 
ings appropriate to each. 

IT TELLS YOU All the various and most approved modes of cooking Vege- 
tables of every description, also how to prepare Pickles, 
Catsups and Curries of all kinds. Potted Meats, Fish, 
Game, Mushrooms, etc. All the various and most ap- 
proved modes of preparing and cooking all kinds of Plain 
and Fancy Pastry, Puddings, Omelettes, Fritters, Cakes, 
Confectionery, Preserves, Jellies, and Sweet Dishes of 
every description. 

IT TELLS YOU All the various and most approved modes of making Bread, 
Rusks, Muffins, and Biscuit, the best method of preparing 
Coffee, Chocolate, and Tea, and how to' make Syrups, Cor- 
dials, and Wines of various kinds. How to set out and 
ornament a Table, how to Carve all kinds of Fish, Flesh 
or Fowl, and in short, how to so simplify the whole Art of 
Cooking as to bring the choicest luxuries of the table 
within everybody's reach. 

The book gives you upwards of twelve hundred Recipes, all of which are the 
result of actual experience, having been fully and carefully tested under the 
personal superintendence of the writers. It contains 418 pages, is illustrated 
with appropriate engravings, and Avill be forwarded to any address, postage 
paid, on receipt of $1, or in cloth extra, $1.25. Address all orders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

No. 617 Sausom St., Plilladelpliiay Fa. 

(xiv) 



A WOKK OF ABSORBING INTEREST. 




laWlWllite 







BY WARREN WILDWOOD, ESQ. 

A more intensely interesting collection of stories, we venture to say, has never before 
been issued. It embraces Desperate Encounters with Indians, Tories, and Kefugees; 
Daring Exploits of Texan £angers and others, and Incidents of Guerilla Warfare ; Fear- 
ful Deeds of the Gamblers and Desperadoes, Rangers and Regulators of the West and 
Southwest, Hunting Stories, Trapping Adventures, etc., etc., etc. 

Drawn from the most eventful period of our country's history, and from the most 
authentic sources, they yet partake of all the wild, weird, and fearful character of 
romance. With startling vividness they bring before the mind of the reader, many a 
deed of blood and carnage— many a scene of heroism and patient endurance. He is 
carried to the homes and firesides of the early settlers, and is agitated by their hopes 
and fears. While he dwells with admiration upon those noble founders of the Repub- 
lic, who were ready and willing to sacrifice their all for their country's good, he will 
yet read with an intense and living interest, of the bold and daring, though sometimes 
nnscrupulous deeds of the men of a later day, who have made " the wilderness to blos- 
som as the rose." 3S4 pp., 12mo. cloth. Price $1.25. Sent to any address, post paid, 
on receipt of price. Address all orders to 

JOHN E. POTTER, Publisher, 

JVo. G17 Sausom St., Pliiladelphia, Pa. 

(XV) 



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